Mate at the back of the class, hoping this feeling won’t last
Just for once
To be like them. With their Swan necks
Long legs
Never out of breath

Warm smiles. Dead behind the eyes
A litany of sins
All ready to repent

Those others, the birds
Their chatter chatter
Too loud
Too high in the trees to reach

The morning evening anxiety killing me
Get me a drink
Give me a boost
Let me for once let loose, then forget

Let me not feel regret
Several sorrys later
Seven exclamation marks
And a stone-heavy heart

Careful words keep getting lost
Careful of my sticks and stones

Vigorous scrubbing stains
But may as well wipe tattooed skin
The writings on bathroom stalls is bible
‘Just let them go’

Keep on repeat. This feeling won’t last