Tellings #2: First Week as a Sophomore

as modeled from Jamiaca Kincaid’s piece "Girl"

don’t forget the laundry; don’t forget your room number; don’t forget your schedule; this is how to get the mail; this is how to get a domain name; this is how to hang the curtains; this is how to use duct tape; this is how to live in the dorm; this is how to work the telephone; if a Mike calls, get his last name; if your Mike calls, get out of the room; what do I tell your parents when they call?; tell them… this is Ben; this is my schedule; this is my frat; this is my life; aren’t you doing laundry?; don’t worry about the lights; don’t forget to water the plant; don’t forget you’re president now; don’t forget your sandals; don’t forget to tell me if you’re not coming home; don’t forget the name tags; don’t forget the videos; don’t forget the sunglasses; don’t forget the wine glasses; but they’re your wine glasses; be sure to get your books used; be at every class ahead of time; be responsible, Young Lady; be sure of what you pack for the weekend; you are coming back, right?; be sure to take your tooth brush; be sure to take your scrapbook; be sure to take your tapes; be sure to take your clothes out of the dryer; be a good student; be a good daughter; be a good friend; be a good girl friend; be good to yourself; what do I tell your parents if they call?; tell them that I…remember you did this last year; remember your responsibilities; remember your major; remember your dreams; remember your virginity; remember your love; remember to get your laundry out of the dryer.