An Ode To Modern Times

I don't like disposable things,
Cars you lease, lighters you can't
Refill, pens you throw away,
Marriages that 'don't work out'.

I don't like 'clip-on' ties, clothes
That must be dry-cleaned, fast food
That must be gulped, restaurants that
Make you wait, and 'weekend children'.

I don't like 'instant gratification'
That gratifies no one, or instant coffee.
I don't like one-way streets or relationships
That turn out that way.

I don't like cellular phones, or car
phones ringing on the expressway.
Most of all, I've decided I don't like
You any more; my attorney will call.

J.D. Royals, September, 1992