At last we reach examination day
and chewing on my full-of-hope 2B
I sit in silence at my desk and pray
for one last chance of saving my degree,
all work evaporating from my head
as if I’d never done a day’s revision
and spent the time with magazines in bed.
Here’s question one. I make my first decision.
       With A, I say I’m sorry for each action.
       With B, I say I should have been more bold.
       With C, I say I’m careless to distraction.
       With D, I say my dedication’s cold.
With E, I say I may not earn your love.
I fail the test. It’s all of the above.

First published in 14 by 14, August 2011.