Toilette

In the cool white shower room
I turn on the taps

The water is warm
The soap smells of flowers

I lather my body with care
This is good soap

I can see the pressed letters in it
They are starting to melt away

 

Tania and Ilse left this morning
It was strange to say goodbye

Almost a relief
What was it held us together?

I reach for the towel
Step out onto the tiled floor

Press the softness to my face
It smells of disinfectant

 

I move through the damp air
to where my dressing gown hangs

The soft cotton cloth
feels strange against my skin

On the shelf below the mirror
there is a comb

A clean brown comb
with the trade-mark stamped into it

 

My hair is starting to grow now
It almost reaches my ears

A final glance in the mirror
Time to make plans

I close the door behind me
I walk back to the ward

I adjust my sleeve
to cover the tattoo