21 Cents

21 Cents

The information blackouts
Are drawn at Whitehall, while
Our controls are being hacked 
And hijacked, those freedoms
That our parents fought seem 
Threatened by a dangerous dream.
Eugenics shadows of the past, 
Mechanics to assist or replace.

The voluntary amputee goes
Beyond the boundaries most
Would wish to traverse, or
Rather climb the distant 
Himalayas, where we pollute 
The air with words, transgress 
Modest and grounded beliefs.
An arrogance to assume, that 
Our world is superior to theirs. 

Powerless in a Powerful flag waving
Nation, grounded as a rusting ship
Waiting to be made over or reborn,
Expanding families lock the door
Against the illegal money lender,
The smooth talking politician 
Who wants his cut and your vote
A partner leaves without a note
Of explanation to clarify your pain.

Respect is not inborn but taught
School rules that parents disavow
With every new expletive, give 
Example to a powerless refrain,
Singing in the shower, not the rain.
Extinguishing the guiding light within, 
To look intently, seeing crouched inside, 
The eloquence of well-spoken lies and
The stuttering of an expressed truth.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2012

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Brown Avatar
February 22, 2012 at 8:30 AM
I am stopping by to thank you so much for your kind comments on my poetry. I enjoyed reading yours today. Have a wonderful day and please continue sharing your poetry Michele. Love, Carol
A   Avatar
February 19, 2012 at 12:23 PM
i am sure somewhere is this 21 cents is a catch 22 very inspiring write keep it up ~always p.d.
Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace