Contrapuntal Written to Take Up Less Space

each time I do not fit

            classroom desk, middle seat

I’m reminded of the way shame settles in a body

            backroom, bar stool

the way even if the fat is gone, the skin maintains proof

            white towel, spa robe

most people who experience extreme weight loss

            algorithms, sorority rush

choose afterward to surgically remove excess skin

            blood pressure cuffs, one-size-fits-all tights

so that even when they’re naked, no one can tell

            12-inch chokers, magazine covers

they were once fat—which is a greater affront

            seatbelts, sing-alongs

we’re just concerned for your health or health

            waiting room chairs, doctor’s scales

as something a person owes another person

            leotards, roller coasters

I am human is a difficult claim to stake

            reality TV, romance novels

when everywhere you don’t see yourself

            beauty machines, bookshelves

is a sweater you’re told should fit