Since September,
I sat one seat behind Anna in algebra.
Passed papers to her every day.
Studied for tons of tests together.

Though it often seemed impossible,
Eventually,
We always found the unknown for X.

But not this time.
This equation
Bounces against my brain.
And sneers at all attempted answers.

I know I'll re-examine the variables,
And reanalyze the unknowns, maybe forever.
But
It won't matter.

Because, Anna-
I know I'll never figure out Y.

Y you didn't want to live-
And Y I never noticed.

Auteur: Terri Fields