----------------------
Climbing lift brings heart to mouth,
as hands shake with unforgiving nerves.
Discomfort and stress carry numbness
of binding ropes, restrictive, tight,
that terrify the mind, and bar
all coherent words. Metal doors slide
silently open to reveal an office
at first glance like any other, but
different upon closer inspection. Potentially
your new workplace.
High-heels clunk on marble floors
as the black and white clad women
deliver aromatic refreshments
to their supervisors. They scrutinise
and judge your every move
as you step towards the director's room.
Hesitant and scared, they think. Avoid
their cold gazes of intense interest.
Smile confidently, display your ivory teeth
as if you own the boldness you lack.
Illuminate your person in a flattering
spotlight - dazzle them all.
Question upon inquiry. He listens
to capture the right answer as soon
as it may fly from your chapped lips.
Sift through words with all the care
you possess, while the coffee mug
steams beside his pale hand, and he glances
up at you, indiscreetly. Eyes have closed
their blinds, betraying nothing. Should
he employ you? Will he? Only
a phone call, some time from now,
will tell you that.
And then, before you've calmed down enough
to allow the tongue to weave its magic
the job interview of your life is over.
The lift exit swings open with a hiss
and you leave the towering sky-scraper.
You breathe again, your pulse
plays and bangs a rhythimic beat
on your sensitive eardrums.
Now, all there is left to do
is wait.
