Anodyne Rhyme
I’m going to write a poem, deliberately lightweight and trite
I’ll work on it long and hard, late into the night
Each word will be carefully considered, an elaborate design
But the overall intention is to remain appositely anodyne
The purpose from the outset is never to offend
so that everyone who hears it will want to be my friend
I’m going to write a poem, not dangerous in any way
But warm and oh so cuddly, and arguably even fey
No one will hear a single word and say it can’t be said
And if they did I’d change it – find another one instead
it will not hurt a fly, it definitely won’t provoke
no challenge to the status quo, no sardonic joke
I’m going to write a poem, with no point however small
Its pointlessness will be the point and that will say it all
And if others like to mock and say that it’s all far too bland
I’ll say thank you very much indeed and shake them by the hand
There will not be a challenge to anyone in control
That can only lead to trouble which is certainly not my goal
I’m going to write a poem, in fact this could be it
Devoid of any animosity devoid of any wit
But perfect for the times we live, with free speech under threat
And those who express opinions will fall into the net
So I’ll keep my head below the parapet, and not make any noise
Except to praise our leaders who deliver boundless joys
I’m going to write a poem, with no contentious subject matter
The voice will come from someone, who only seeks to flatter
No underlying message, all will be clearly stated
A manifesto from a man who has been rehabilitated
Who sees only altruism, from those who pull the strings
They have your interests at heart, so let them do their thing
I’m going to write a poem, with all sorts of preconditions
But as I start to pen the words I feel a deep suspicion
That something won’t allow me to be so subservient
For it is embedded in my character to display some small dissent
There’ll have be a dig or two at those who are in command
Just a hint of contempt and censure, as they asset-strip our land
For we are ruled by multi-millionaires, who slyly operate
who fill their well-lined pockets while others stand and wait
They know nothing else but privilege, they’re to the manor born
So they change the laws to regulate the lives of those they scorn
Dismantling the welfare state, with callous disregard
and of course more union bashing, they like to play that card
I’m going to write a poem, but I feel the anger rising
I cannot be the only one to feel uncompromising
As yet I’m not inclined to let them have the earth
I’ve lived for too many decades to assume the role of serf
So if like me you’ve had enough, then stand up with the crowd
Shout out and wave your banners, BE RADICAL AND BE LOUD