If I were a shoelace

If I were a shoelace, I'd come undone,
flap in puddles till I was sodden,
trap myself beneath my other shoe
and snap.
If I were a shoelace
I'd trip me up.

If I were a glove, I'd leave myself behind
on a railway café table
for some other traveller to find.
One handed,
if I were a glove
I'd be single.

If I were a fly, I'd walk around low
with my head down
so everyone could see
what I was.
If I were a fly,
I'd be open.

If I were a hat, I'd blow off,
and tumble into the sea.
I'd float upside-down
like a boat.
If I were a hat,
I'd sail away.