The Teacher
by
Everett (dale) Pogue
copyright 09-03-2007
Age Rating: 13 to 127
The boy carefully tip-toed through cheap wine bottles
And dirty clothes strewn in piles across the floor.
A man he didn't know lay sprawled upon the sofa,
Echoing sonorous sounds as his massive stomach
Rose and fell.
He tightly clutched a tablet and precious books.
A lunch-pail dangled from scrawny fingers.
No kind words or kiss ushered him to the door.
Only the harsh voice of an ugly street spoke to him
As it opened.
Child of the ghetto stepped quickly to the walk.
School was a danger-filled six blocks away.
Charcoal tenements loomed darkly overhead
Those alert eyes and ears too familiar
With blasts and screams that often echoed
In the night.
The ancient, high-walled room brought instant calm.
Aromas of cedar-oil and chalk refreshed his mind,
Easing the heart-beat of this ghetto child.
There, behind her massive, knife-carved desk she sat.
And she cared.
"Why, good morning, Jerome! My, you are an early-bird!
It's really good to see a boy in love with school!"
She flashed a warm, toothy smile which made
Him quickly forget the hunger in his stomach
And his heart.
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you recommend or rate the work highly...
Heh, as many of the others said I could picture it all. Your descriptions captured the scene you were describing and a story you were telling very well. Something that ticks me off is when there are these tiny little lines that don't tell skaata... Reading poems of your style is a nice change. Good work, keep it coming!
Leigh of the Commenting Community
P.S. I've been with PnP a while, but neglected it over the summer...but I am now back to commenting avidly on the words of the semi-newbies!
It tears at my heart when I think of those children who love school, only because it's an escape from the rest of their uncaring world. This work really makes you feel the emptiness and loneliness in such a life. Thank God there are those 'few' teachers who really do care. I knew a few of them myself.
Dale, I have to say that there close to the ending I got a hard lump in my throat and then instantly it cleared up as the hunger in his heart and stomach disappeared... this is a very clever,and interesting way to explain a situation like this! I really loved the poem and I have found no errors. You really do have a way with words... no doubt about that. I can't wait to read more of your work!
Your New Friend, Tammy F
Welcome to PNP!
Welcome to PNP!
I know there are too many children in this world that can relate to this piece.
I agree with Richard.. the imagery is excellent. I do not think it could have been told differently. Similies and metaphors have a place in this art, but this a statement of truth. One with just enough rhythym and flair to draw the reader into the picture.. almost feeling, smelling, and experiencing each step he took to his safe seat. I wonder if this woman knows the difference she makes to this child?
I find no fault.
Debbie Thomas
Welcome !
