152. In English class, anticipating an attack.

She scares me,

The 1st Form* English teacher.

Thin, bird-like features, beehive hair.

Palpable fear,

Like walking through Magpie territory

In spring.

I know an attack is imminent.
I hope I’m prepared.

Mrs Skelly’s methodology,

Students reading aloud.

Class starts with harsh high-pitched command.

Predictably:

“COWAN! BEGIN.”

Dutifully I read.

Note:

* 1st Form in Secondary School. It s now Year 7. Students are generally turning 13 at this stage.