The Student Sonnet
Work in Progress?
Note: I have pretty much been dead on my feet this week with the midterm exams, weather weirdness in Canada, and the usual obsessions and concerns over money and future work (thank you, stress headache...stressache?). So, this may not be my best work, but I think it explains where my head is at and what I have had to deal with...
Sir, I must apologize for the last week.
I told you I could not be here for the class.
I guess I should have taken time to speak
to you. Does this mean I cannot pass?
I know, I know… I am just thinking of me.
But there was so much happening
with the family...and painful trick knee.
Did I tell you how I hurt it? Here’s the thing:
I really like the course; you make it fun.
I think that the lessons are important and clear.
I know I won’t be the only student, the only one
to say that you are helping us, but there's a big fear:
Is this going to be a permanent mark?
Am I going to be done before I even start?
*
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You can find more poems, stories, and articles by Kendall Defoe on my Vocal profile. I complain, argue, provoke and create...just like everybody else.
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About the Creator
Kendall Defoe
Teacher, reader, writer, dreamer... I am a college instructor who cannot stop letting his thoughts end up on the page. No AI. No Fake Work. It's all me...
And I did this:
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Comments (40)
Such a familiar sentiment. I’m on Easter break now and am completely neglecting my grades. Wish I could downgrade or outsource grading altogether.
Sounds good Kendall 😊❤️ Keep up the good work!
Congrats on Top Story!!
Always a hard one, and “Am I going to be done before I even start?” is a real fear that plagues the students. I’m lucky that I get to see my high school kids enough to usually know if they’re telling the truth or not, as there are a lot less of them than in college! That’s a tricky task.
Dazzling job! Keep up the outstanding work—congrats!
Nice share Kendall Defoe!
Congratulations on top story. I do not miss those days.
helpful share! thanks
Definitely show the students!
Impressive!!! ♥️♥️💕 Congratulations on Top Story too!!!
I work on a college campus and have overheard variations of this conversation a thousand times from both sides. But this is the first time I've heard it put so poetically.
Ah...in hindsight...it must be hard from both sides of the excuse/reason being given and being recieved. Even though you've said what you said...this was done so cleverly it deserves its Top Story recognition. Congrats, Kendall on a fine piece!
So clever! Congrats on your TOP STORY!!
Congrats on Top Story!🥳🥳🥳
I remember those days. I Sat at home worrying because I couldn't finish the lesson. And not to mention the days when I thought they would fail me because I had problems, despite my hard work. My heart feels you, Kendall, and well done on Top Story.
congrats on top story. Ya the weather uncertainty here is crazy too. No snow for 3 weeks now snow everyday...
Congratulations on the TS!
Condolences on the mental load you are carrying!! Hope you are finally seeing the light at the end of that dark tunnel Kendall!! Great sonnet, I loved the tempo and feel of it as I read it aloud!! Great work and congrats on Top story!!
Great sonnet, Kendall! Fortunately, my classroom and students weren't "conventional" so I didn't have to deal with this kind of thing. I don't envy you that, but I did enjoy the way you described it.
Really enjoyed this relatable piece !
Funny! I remember making excuses too. As well as hearing them when I was a teacher!
So true
I taught in college...nursing school. I can relate!!!
Congratulations for the TS!
I'm sure you've heard them all by now, lol. I bet you are a great teacher, if only they are willing to learn. Much respect, my friend! And the ending quote, 😅. Congrats!!!