Alma Mater

I find it hard to write about my high school experience as a whole - four years that have radically shaped me in one poem?! But here's an attempt, not comprehensive, but representative.

I was

the one who sat upfront

If none was in the class

that claimed my heart a little

 

and I was

the one who spoke first and forever

in discussion, interrupted monologues

Offended and upended convention

 

I am

however, tolerated and well-loved

One by some, one by fewer

because something in algebra (your eyes) took hold of me

 

and I am

ridiculous and shy, about that

Every poet needs a love she cannot shake

or kill, before she dives between the yellowed covers

 

I will

pontificate from my creaking chair

Elaborate with care, pray hard they’ll

see, this is a real and vital part of me

 

and I will

decline maturity, rather suckle truth

on bended knees, as bare footsteps fade

Forgotten, from grit and gum covered halls

Reviews

[Dressed in Poetry]

I love this. It does capture your high school experience, I believe, or at least it grabs the best parts and the parts that made you you. It is great.

I love that you crossed out "algebra" and put "your eyes" in parentheses instead. I don't know why I love that bit so much, but I do.