Potential

Usually, my missives to paid subscribers include essays on various topics, but this one is a little different. This is a monologue I wrote about “potential.” Let’s call it my “experimental content.” But don’t worry, I won’t make a habit of it. Though I’m considering sharing a short story I’ve been working on.

INT. CLASSROOM - DAY

A student, disheveled and weary-eyed, sits across from their teacher.

The teacher is about to speak when the student interrupts.

STUDENT
I know what you’re about to say.

(Beat)

I swear. I do.

(Another beat)

You were about to tell me how much potential I have.

(With disdain)

No offence, but…don’t. I hate that word.

(With a bitter laugh)
As a kid, people always told me I had “potential.” I could be a great author. Or lawyer. Or a Broadway star! They saw big, BIG things for me. And sometimes, I’d allow myself to believe them. Really, I would.

(With growing frustration)
But you know what? Fuck them. That’s right, fuck them.

(With intensity)
One day, after a bottle of fine teq…