This is a poem I wrote on the McGill experience, 39 years after my time on campus from 1976 to 1979, published in my book Poems from the Aisle Seat.
The Hand That Took the Notes
A journey through McGill University Engineering
The hand that filled the application,
leafed the calendar and chose the courses;
Later, pointed from Roddick Gates to McConnell and MacDonald,
And from there to halls of residence or ghetto apartment,
That signed the lease and pushed the door;
The hand that took the notes,
Held the book, turned the page, raised for questions,
Pushed the pen and scratched the mistakes,
During Thermo, Fluids or BVP,
And fumbled the Fortran computer cards
The hand that cradled the beer, held up a friend,
Stirred Kraft Dinner, clapped in pair to music and dance,
Poured the wine, served the cheese,
Paid for drinks, held the joint,
cupped the breast and locked the door,
The hand that wrote the exam, searched the list,
Patted the back, wiped the tear,
Reached for mail in 111, messaged on the blackboard,
Wiped the sleep from eyes, searched the library index,
Punched at the calculator, carried designs, acknowledged the team;
The hand that changed the gears, punched the ticket,
Pulled the scarf, zipped the coat and closed the locker,
Threw the pass, grabbed a flag, raised a cheer,
Pushed the broom that hit the ball,
The hand that froze and covered the bruise,
The hand that received the diploma,
That applied for jobs, wrote the letters,
Picked the prospects, greeted the interviewer,
Signed the contract, shook hands and waved goodbye,
The hand that wears the iron ring.