Politics mentioned – observe the tension

The worry is worn on faces unsure

Still as detention, vast apprehension

Who were you with? Were you with him or her?

Self-censorship peaking, voices suppressed

Opinions are strong – all flex them at home

Elephant in public, rude to address

Guess it’s less stressful to have views unknown

Instructor prodding, providing pupils

With a chance to share, unveil their viewpoints

Note how mum this talkative bunch becomes

Stung with a topic that renders them numb

After the pause, a hand rises slowly

Fiery gazes land on it coldly