All day long I stumble

through the dark

avoiding students who always seem to want

something I can never give.  They corner me

at the doorway to my room, demanding an explanation

for the essays in which they poured what remained

of their hearts.  Can I talk to you about. . .

But before she can get the words out of her mouth

you cut her off, locking the door, shutting that

and everything else, out.