Scheduling the Bone Scan

The word “bone” tolls in your ear,
a bell. What tolls? The word, the bone?

The drum in your ear moves the hammer
like a lever, a bone moves
the word “bone” through your ear.

You repeat “bone,” your voice droning—
not silver: bronze. A duller thud.
Nothing ringing—instead, a buzz—
the devouring sound—the insect, time.