In Mammon’s Jaws

 

In Mammon’s Jaws

We are angry at the others, we are angry at ourselves.

We are saddened, we are sickened and we find we are in hells.

What’s the reason for the anger, for the sadness and malaise?

What’s turned us all to turtles that are hiding in their shells?

That’s a question I would answer, if I suddenly could see

Through all of my confusion to the thing that’s driving this.

But I do not have that vision, so I’ll let you have a try.

If you figure out the answer, let me know then what it is.

You might give to me an instance, and that I will accept.

But if you’d dig a little deeper, to be nearer to the cause

That is driving humans crazy—and not only you and me—

I’ll be grateful for your efforts, as we writhe in Mammon’s jaws.

It’s a thing that’s new and ancient. It was then and it is now.

Is it evil? Is it madness? Is it sorrow at the heart?

I could ramble on about it, but I know that isn'’t wise.

So I’ll leave you with the question, as I bow and I depart

2017 October 18th, Wed.

Berkeley, California