I intend to learn
The wonders of science and math, Literature and history,
All subjects, narrow and vast.
I would dabble in languages,
Exploring cultures and equations,
Of past, present, and future,
For knowledge’s sake alone.
I yearn for understanding,
For comprehension,
For a feeling of importance,
For the ability to survive in the world
On my own.
But alas I am forced
To compete with friends
For an arbitrary grade,
A grade that determines futures.
They make me lose determination,
Lose hope,
Lose sleep,
Just to play in The Game.