Eight hours from now
Life’s simple
pleasures will be
denied.
The mob will rule
The mind police sanction.
Pity the poor
Man who strays from
the designated path.
Eight days from now
We will greet friends by
ignoring them
condemn opponents for
Their secret thoughts
In our new reality.
Eight weeks from now.
The repeated gesture,
the quiet pause,
the attentive and,
encouraging nod,
the gracious thank-you,
and the measured response
Will be banned.
The willingness to stop and breathe
The desire to put the pressing
task aside and help.
That too will be
Gone.
– Job
