becoming one of them

they fit you early
for the collar, the clasps,
the irons
around your ankles.

cuff links and ties.
the ball and chain.
they ease
them on each year,
tightening
the screws, turning
the key just a touch
more to the right,
adding more weight
as you grow.

they put a briefcase

in your hand,

slip a ring onto your

finger,
before long
you forget that they are
there. this is how
you lose your childhood,
and become one of
them.