The request for silence from on high
was no doubt heard
by each and every ear-adorning head
which bobbed in compliance,
yet was fast forgotten
by first one, then six, then fifteen,
until before long the cavernous corridor
was a-clamor with murmuring conversation.

You could see the swelling frustration
spread over the face of the talent
who chomped his gum with total commitment
peering down from his mark
and silently cursing the masses below
who chattered on
oblivious to his rancor.