Phantoms

I

Plagues claim all sorts of victims, large and small

Paupers, princes, places, things--ideas

One such victim, to the surprise of all

Is education, at least as it was

II

Prior to the plague, most showed up for class

Having done most of the reading, most days

COVID has made the instructor an ass

If he or she or they expect these ways

III

To yet remain; for now, expect nothing

Save ample anxiety about grades

Turning up in the flesh is not their thing;

Nor does reading win their accolades

IV

Thinking? Memorization takes its place

Though one can memorize without knowing

What words written with style, substance and grace

Might mean; thus, does indoctrination sing

V

Oxymoronic is online learning,

Like jumbo shrimp or the same difference

If from texts and discussions, you’re gleaning

Naught, what could you possibly be learning?