Things I cannot do.

How to change your name

Start with your old one – you cannot get anywhere
without it – and suspend it in your mouth
until it is no longer a word. Surround
yourself with it. We will get you unacclimatised

but we need your help first. Say your name now
as if it is the first time you've been called it.
Bring a photo you have labelled of yourself
as yourself. Your old name is old news now.

Take a deep breath from your toes to the crown
of your head. Do not speak. The fee is minimal.
Don't speak until your new name
is all you are. This is your only chance.

Keep breathing, there is no pressure of time.
In. Out. That's right. We are not experts,
we do not know where they come from.
I see; good choice. We don't get many of those

but it seems to suit.