The Professor Said

I teach soldiers

back from war.

I hear so much silence.

I see such glow

pale suchness

pride, a slim yes

a nod, an offset

remark or two.

They sit in when

Muscle-sharp

A pin drop, a cut

A dark brow, a tuft

A quick smile.

Somewhere in the room

I have soldiers who

ask without asking

What now?