We were told in the first week
but already knew
six would be chosen for winter
everybody free to apply.
Flexibility, affability, productivity, the attributes sought.
Shift change
room change
public holiday work day
“would you?”
“Yes,” with a smile.
We are informed individually
the floor is intensely interesting
the words are recorded
the reasons listened to later.
Neither of us is very good at this
mercifully brief . Disappointment is impatient.
Yes, everything is all right.
Yes there is another opportunity. Next year.
12 months
the time required for the earth to orbit the Sun
and return to the same point.
Opportunity and desire provide sharp contrast.
Rejection, the dark far of farthest
fragility seeks absolution
a colleague obliges
“mate, you’re not what they are looking for.”
For the back story click Backstage
Orphaned Islands (Un)poetry 