Miss Exclamation Mark, thank you
for coming to this interview.
Let’s talk today about your life,
the sources of your joy and strife.
Today – no, every day – I ’m tired.
Without reprieve, I am required
to punctuate line after line
for those who think I am divine.
Do you derive no sense of pride
from knowing writers far and wide
employ you as it seems they see
your role as one that’s truly key?
This may sound strange. I feel abused.
These modern writers have refused
to cease from overworking me.
I should be used – but sparingly.
Don't treat me as a substitute
for words well-chosen. Be astute.
When strong emotions need expressing
Don't drag me in as window-dressing.
Thank you for being here today.
May your advice come into play
each time we lift our pens to write.
Forgive us – since we’ve caused your plight.