newly ancient

A single pencil, a #2 pencil,
perfect for a test.
	of will.
	of fate.
	of intelligence.
	of knowledge.
	of No Child Left Behind.

Micro-invertebrate live on
even as the word is written
	and erased...
	and rewritten.

To write...
	an exponential equation;
	a nocturnal note;
	a patriotic poem;
	and praising pose.
No need for affirmative action.

The life span is short.
Destined to lose its way before social security
Hidden in a drawer...
	out of sight;
	out of mind;
	out of use.
But it lives a full life
surrounded by words
	of love;
	of hate;
	and of taxes.