! 'You Have A New Comment About Your Poem...'

'What is the purpose of poetry? [Candidates will be awarded up to 80% of the total marks for this paper on the answer to this question. Write on one side of the paper only but with both frontal lobes; hearts may be used in answers to this question.]' After the two hours is up, hand in a blank sheet; the examiner may sigh and smile. Some sages say - those not affected by some academic status to uphold - (that pause, that look, which indicates, it's not as simple as all that...) - that it's the oldest-fashioned thing, to melt the heart... but today I'd say, well yes and no - more like a key you turn and - whoosh! - there cascades out, all that's in their heart, all the vast all which they have to give; and you stand aside, stunned and humble; such a small key; such a vast world is there.