Till the Game Ends

Let your legs carry youthrough this familiar land.Let the déjà vu wash over you.Your fate is in your hands.

Look up and see the familiar sign:the ticking clock, the passing time.10 more minutes. Legs together.No bullets shall cross your colossal border.

8 more minutes. A shot is taken.Step left. You’re not mistaken.Dive down. Reawakenthe energy that lets you—

“CLEAR!” You shout.6 more minutes. You’re off the floor.Hit your leg guards and play some more.

4 more minutes.You’re counting down the time.

3 minutes. Reset. Recover.“MARK BEHIND!”

They’re coming back.Are you ready for their attack?

Eyes dart.They get the ball.The cycle restarts.1 minute.

Your ears drown out your shoutingYour heart does not stop thumping.You hear the final whistle screeching.And fall to your knees, panting:

The game is over.