At the Machine Shop

O boy
This is just what I wanted:
Tired of the slow sculpting of water
Taming my edges drop by drop,


I was ready for abrasives
	the grinding stone
	the saw
	and
	the torch


I wanted sparks to burn holes in my socks
I wanted to feel my glazes curdle
	and drip in the heat.


Now I've met steel
My edges fall away from the blade


I've been bent in the fire
My head's drilled for bolts
	and I'm
		ready
		ready
		ready


For the next dark visage behind
	a welder's mask