In the women’s clinic
the mammogram machine
is shaped like an embryo in profile
Large awkward squarish head
Straight spine
Tucked-under pelvis
A leg bud (tray)
An arm bud (compressor plate)
Mouthparts where the beam comes out
Embossed in the plastic a plus-sign
where a proto-eye might be
First published in Creatrix 49, June 2020