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Sport 32: Summer 2004
The Unsuccessful
The Unsuccessful
In many ways he would have been ideal.
He had a relevant qualification.
Some months before he had even spent a few days in our office,
at his own instigation, to gain work experience.
During that time he had been willing and eager,
and had picked things up quickly.
He'd gone about the menial tasks we'd given him
with a grateful enthusiasm.
He'd got on well with everyone.
He was punctual, presentable and had
a sense of humour.
That's important in our line of work.
When I saw that he'd applied, my heart sank.
I know this is unfair, but I felt angry toward him.
Nevertheless, we went through the interview process
in a fair and balanced manner.
Afterwards, he rang up wanting to know why.
I said the usual stuff about the large number of quality applicants.
He was calm and polite, and ended the call by saying
that he hoped the door wasn't completely closed.
I have only seen him on three occasions since:
once, sitting by himself on a park bench, and once
reading a notice in the Central Library. And the other day
I was stuck in traffic and
there he was, crossing the road,
staring intently
at something
up in the sky.