Tracey Hickey - Ode to my backpack

(Yeah, I wrote this for Creative Writing....)

I’ve only known you for two years,
but I must say, all flattery aside, that you have become a big part of me.
A BIG part of me.
At least three times the size of my head, actually, and considerably wider than my body.
When I pass my reflection in display cases I’m surprised at how small you make me look
like a rodent as I scurry down the halls, hunched under the austere bulk of you, a black-and-purple monstrosity frayed all around the edges.
My last name printed on your front pocket in faded black.
For which I sincerely apologize, of course,
but it’s not as if I chose it.
I’ll admit I have mixed feelings about you.
You make things so much more convenient than they were back when you were banned from the hallways and I carried your contents in my arms.
Over the years you have spared me numerous trips across this tiled wasteland to fetch materials from the godforsaken tin can where I store what you can not hold.
All in all, you are a dear companion to me
and I am much obliged to have you at my side.
In fact, far fewer complaints would escape my lips if you spent MORE time at my side, dear friend,
and less on my back,
where, I am afraid, you become an enemy.

Tracey Hickey

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/ode-to-my-backpack/