Math teachers use transformations to describe changes in graphs
As if the word was intended to move points on a plane
They insist upon step by processes, x, and y
They move and scale lines sharp enough to cut

Those who study science are closer to the truth
Their transformations paint pictures of life anew and energy reborn
Broken bonds and flashes of light and heat
Metal to rust, ashes to dust

History teachers look through too wide a lens
Viewing film reel revolutions, Pondering red-button moments
Tectonic shifts in culture are the transformations of history
Moving type tapping out the future

Students of literature ask almost the right questions
Their currency are emotions
Joy for depression, disgust exchanged for acceptance
Characters fitting into a new niche on a sliding scale

Transforming is ripping the fabric of personality
Pulling at threads of terrible days and turning them inside out
Exposing festering wounds and forcing them to heal
To crack the mirror and laugh
To slam the door shut on “before” and throw open “after”