Mummification

(Poetry Scales 14)

As the proverbial frog in the pot
Life gradually ties us in knots
Tells us lies and sings us thoughts
Rendering life a mere afterthought.

Buy a home; bow to the HOA
Work just enough; only for the pay
Structure game; it’s no longer play
Put off life; until someday.

Removing brains,
They aren’t needed
Who thinks?
Preserved in cement
They can’t change
Who repents?
Dried dusty stiffs
They’re entombed
Who notices?

The lie now bought:
There is no afterlife.
Why bother living?