Home » Poems » L Milton Hankins » The Times They Are Changing

The Times They Are Changing

Some friends say I do not understand The new age we are purportedly living in The tell me even language has changed Frankly, I don’t know where to begin. It seems my statistics are way out-of-date My experience counts for almost nothing, Seems like respect for things I cherished-- Like freedom of speech—is slowly dwindling Political factions are at each other’s throats Over cockamamy theories of dubious source The most idiotic fame-seekers are elected While the news is skewed and bifurcated And everybody knows more than I forgot Could it be my time has come to sit back And listen, without offering any opinion? I suspect so, but I cannot help but chuckle At where this new generation is going. written April 8, 2022 [late, after a long day!]

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

Ann Peck

Date: 4/9/2022 10:31:00 AM

I guess we all struggle with changing times as we age. I remember my dad saying we'd be sorry if we elected Kennedy. I don't know the bands, the actors, the words spoken now, time rushing by, the few of us left. It's hard. Your poem very nicely expressed the frustration we feel.

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/9/2022 12:23:00 PM

Thank you so much, Ann, for your thoughtful and insightful comment on my poem. I really appreciate it.

John Lawless

Date: 4/9/2022 4:09:00 AM

Well, Milton, as you are using the title of an old Bob Dylan song......we can also ask ourselves....how much have the times changed since we were singing it....and how much of the change was inspired by "our" generation. Remember...when you couldn't trust anybody over 30

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/9/2022 7:57:00 AM

Indeed I do, John. "Those were the days, my friend, we thought they'd never end."

Caren Krutsinger

Date: 4/9/2022 12:42:00 AM

I am also chuckling. I learned "cap on" yesterday. It means you are lying. What?

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/9/2022 8:08:00 AM

That's a new one on me!

Kim Rodrigues

Date: 4/8/2022 8:20:00 PM

The youngsters should lean into the words of the old and wise. We are not meant to be discarded. We should also listen. God bless!

L Milton Hankins
Date: 4/8/2022 9:49:00 PM

Much, much truth in your comment, Kim. Thanks!