Exhausted Words

I click my pen and put it back in my bag.

I run my hand over my writing, feel the smooth pages and follow the bumps my words have imprinted. A final review. It looks pretty good, neatly scribbled across the lines.

I am satisfied and admire my work with a contented smirk.

Thin blue lines on a simple white canvas that provide endless possibilities for my insight.

I've filled them as best as I can.

These are my best thoughts and the most intelligent answers I can conceive;

the finest embodiment of my cognizance.

I close my booklet and flatten out the creases, taking pride in my effort.

I hope I've studied enough, maybe just one last skim.

That's it, I've done all I can. I stand up, no turning back now.

I hand in my paper, you give me a nod and half a smile of approval and put my work on the pile.

Will you find anything different in mine?

Did you see anything different in me?

Will my words provoke anything new in your mind, or have you heard them many times before?

As I pull on my coat and pack up my things, I can only wonder what affect I've had on you.

As a professor, you encounter hundreds of students a semester.

Did anything I've written even give you a second thought?

Did anything I've said leave any impact at all?

I am afraid that I am nothing new to you.

Are these exhausted words?

I hope I am wrong, I'd like to think that I was able to provide you with a refreshing perspective.

Will you even remember my name after today?

Do you remember my name right now?

As I walk out and wish you well, I take my last look.

It is very possible that we will never cross paths again.

Are we any better or worse from the experience?

Was this a one-sided relationship?

I've learned so much, but has it left any fingerprint on you?

Or am I just another grade?

Reviews

[Skai Rain]

Easily relatable. Love it!

[Rick r]

I like the flow and suspense, as well. I read this as much more personal than teacher/student. Relationship gone awry. Good pen.

[Michael (Letters and Li..]

Wow I can really relate to this! You've really done a magnificent job of crafting that suspense we all feel when we are ready to present our writing. I really enjoyed this. Great job!