limescale is the hard, off-white chalky deposit found in kettles

or on the inner surface of old pipes

 

I reject your offers to help   guard my self-sufficiency

even as I find myself leaning on you   noting your solidity

 

as the water evaporates   insoluble calcium carbonate and

magnesium carbonate become limescale

 

I refuse your open-handed gifts    certain I can do it alone

that life is more efficient if I manage it myself

 

as limescale becomes thick, it will reduce efficiency

taking longer to heat up and increase the chance of rusting

 

In a dream, I lie on the floor   a hollow space in my chest

until you   as if baptizing me   allow my tears to flood the chamber

 

rinse with white vinegar bath   allow to sit in kettle for

30-60 minutes   no scrubbing needed

 

you stand by   steady drumbeat of your presence

loosens my hold   your arms my refuge

 

 

*The italicized text is taken from Topwit Electric Kettle, Tips for Descaling.