Mr Darwin, prickly and aged bachelor biology teacher
At a public school I will not name,
Stood lab-coated before a class of rowdy troglodytes each Friday,
Who mocked his every feature, every foible—he
Being the only specimen they ever cared to examine,
Microscopically.

A. pages of books

B. clocks & meeting times (“midday” & “sundown” no longer suffice)

C. ounces of water, tea, wine

I.
In bed, back propped up against
two pillows wearing your alma
mater sweatshirt.