Memorization

In school, I had to memorize A Kilmer poem called “Trees.” I wasn’t crazy ‘bout it, but I did the deed with ease. My 6th grade brain had lots of cells Absorbing all the stuff I entered as I learned things; There was always room enough. But as the years flew by, that brain Was filling to the brim And adding more, or trying to, Took me out on a limb. Abilities go AWOL, too, And thus memorization Appears at this time to have gone On permanent vacation. I have a speech to memorize – Of course, it’s rhyming verse – And I’m not sure if reading it Or botching will be worse. I’ll try it but will sneak a copy Just in case I need it, Though I’m expecting, honestly, Most likely I will read it.