A Roman emperor I know too well.


Nero


You walk a high-wire act
called personal finance,
borrowing money,
Payday Loans.

You threaten with your checkbook
like it was a loaded weapon.

Tomorrow you will go shopping
and to restaurants and burn gas
in pursuit of pleasure.

Chasing happiness, your ultimate
if distant goal.

Fiddling while Rome burns.




August 26, 2009
© Anne Westlund




Poetry by Anne Westlund
Read 561 times
Written on 2009-09-03 at 08:04

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Brian Oarr
Of the several poems you've posted today, Anne, I find myself preferring this one, not only for it's interesting metaphor, but also for it's title. Too often we see excellent pieces post on the board with what amout to throwaway titles, as if they were a mere chore to dispense with. But titles are a vital component of a full-fleshed poetic work and your one word "Nero" sticks the metaphor with such agility. Kudos for the thought that went into this piece!

Brian
2009-09-03