The New Math

Well, before you read this you should know that I'm a teacher's assistant by day. I honestly love my work. This poem is about a kid in that class that needs my help quite a bit.

Every morning

You walk up

And ask,

“Can you help me?”

And for 30 minutes

I’m a glorified tutor.

And God forbid

We should sit at a desk.

The floor has more room.

Should another child

Ask for help

You take it

As a personal offense

When I help them.

When math is over

You make me promise

To help you later, and I always do

Knowing

There’s no time after lunch.

 

Author's Note

I'm particularly interested in what you think about my line breaks. Also, does this poem come off as sad, funny, cynical, or a mix? Thanks you guys!

Reviews

[Nobody.]

I dig the line breaks...I believe line breaks should be the cadence of the author, or his character's speaking pattern. Dealing with a needy child can make anyone's cadence a bit more broken. You want to give them what they need, but, you also want to set limits...tough balance...so yeah, I dig the line breaks...they seem honest. The whole feel of this is quite honest and seems so genuine...I like the whole thing.

Cheers!

[Coyote Poetry]

I like the feel of the poem. Good to have the skill to teach and have patience. I believe most people want 100% of your attention when being taught. I like the ending. A excellent poem.
Coyote

[Marie]

I find nothing amiss about your line breaks. They give a rythym to the poem. This isn't cynical, just a teacher's normal response to a demanding student.