Bill Sherman: The Secretary

She had a large Underwood

Said she preferred it to computer

Said her father re-upholstered the sofa.

It was light blue. Said she kept a cat.

She passed me the papers on which

I was to write to Paul Newman

Saying why I couldn't attend his classes this week.

Dear Professor Newman I began. I am in London.

She smiled so sweetly at me. Her eyes

Were bright and kind and full. I felt sorry For myself being so old.

And I awoke.

I wish things had turned out differently.

But here I am, having cheated and lied All my life.

Well, I'm not a villain I don't think, didn't transgress In any major way,

just screwed it all up.