Muse's Post-NaPo-2019 De-Brief

She strode on the podium with a refined air  
that some might mistake for arrogance  
but was in fact hard-won confidence -  
someone who knew her strengths …  
(I had added “& weaknesses” but she edited that out).  
 
As usual she pitched right in, eschewing pleasantries.  
“Completing NaPo-2019 does not make you a poet …”  
I felt she spoke just to me [*sigh*], despite the large audience.  
“… Apart from basic daily homework, your job  
is to cultivate a relationship with me, 24/7 … [*smiles all round*]  
 
… and be ready to die for me”.  Ooof! That hurt.
Listeners winced, pushing back into their seats.  
She had that knack of putting you in your place  
and yet you ended up admiring, desiring her even more.  
Talk about enchantment.  
 
“… Moreover …” she continued, raising her voice above the mumbling  
grumbling aggravated whispers of ‘to die? - wtf!’  
“… given the number of times I see #WritersBlock on DUP…  
… Well, Think About It”. I nearly jumped up and shouted  
‘bastard!’ but stopped myself just in time.  
 
“Finally, I am aware that a NaPo month is strenuous  
and takes its toll …”. She smiled and paused  
like people do when powering for max effect to make a point:  
“… a short holiday is granted. Report for work this time tomorrow”.  
Jeez, I thought - the GIG economy has even reached poetry.