The Endemic Panic
Gone, the mad rush
After a hasty peck.
All the time in the world –
But where’s now the kiss?
Gone, the bondage
To drudgery and haste.
Yet, like oxen unyoked,
Immobile we stand.
No more the weekends,
That we long for now,
But the flesh pots of Egypt.
Freedom has its price.
The melted dross
From the crucible,
Undiscarded we bear,
Crushing our souls.
Flowers bloom, birds sing;
Nature rejoices.
The haves grow obese,
The have-nots starve.
Terrified to die,
Yet bored to death;
Tithonuses are we all,
In this pandemic of ennui.
Killing time is not easy.
On a slender thread,
Hangs time heavy.
Heavy indeed.
Abie Alexander © March 28, 2020
Shillong, India
The Endemic Panic
Very well expressed, Abie. We normally say, “How time flies”; but, now, Time is really sitting heavy on our existence!
Thank you, Dulal, for the comment. The relativity of time has never been clearer.
Abie, enjoyed reading your poem. This too shall pass by the grace of Lord. Take care during these testing times. Thank you & Regards, Ramesh Subramanian
Many thanks, Ramesh. Appreciate your comments. Let us hope we can all come through this unscathed. Best!
Enlightening depiction of this pandemic. Amazing how many people feel trapped. Great poem!
Thank you, Elizabeth, for reading the poem and for the comment. Yes, trapped is the right word. Stay safe!
Poetry writing has changed so much. No more the rhyming and rhythm of old…..the author has conveyed his thoughts well. Nevertheless I miss those scales of poetry we used to have…
Thanks, Bah Edward, for reading the poem and commenting. Rhymes went out a long time ago!
Excellent piece Abie, this pandemic is bringing out the best in us.
Thanks, GS. I hope you are also finding it easier to pen your next book without distractions. Best!
Your poem reflects the current mood of desperation and dismay. Excellent composition.
Thank you, Himojyoti Bhattacharya,for your appreciation. Glad the poem spoke to you.