CHRISTINE M. KNIGHT

A teacher and his students Stand before a portrait of a child The style reminiscent of Johannes Vermeer. She stands in a darkened doorway, Looking back over her shoulder at the viewer, Handkerchief in hand, A single tear balanced On her lower eyelid.

Daily, ritually, The office photocopier churns out documents. Periodically, it protests With an unceremonious stop work.

In a world at war, An ordinary man (so his neighbours said) Balanced 'small crimes' against moments of goodness On his life's ledger.

The room fills slowly. Staff trudge in, mugs in hand. The uninitiated carry note pads and pens. The experienced smuggle in magazines Stowed inside the covers of departmental folders.

Government Spokesperson: We’re on the cutting edge of the revolution digital. Taxation dollars have been spent on laptops that are minuscule. They are lightweight, robust, and designed for school.