Hail a Cab

give thanks to god

on this auspicious day

for showing us what chum

devoid of facts and figures

in these shark infested waters

we truly have become

praise the anointed bankers

and the newly ordained saints

for teaching us to dredge

the bottom of the swamp

to blow bubbles

with a sipping straw

into the slimy ooze

and cause the sludge

hiding underneath

to float up to the top

exalt the preachers

and billionaire cadets

naturally selected from among us

to divide and keep for themselves

the resources of the planet

pray for the rest who pay

for the fruitless entertainment

that distracts them

from the hunger and

the uncontrollable fires

count your good fortune

to hail a cab without a driver

with your smart phone

that keeps its watchful eye

on everything you do

marvel at the artificial intelligence

of the big yellow taxi

touring loops and circles

around the monuments and mall

don’t regret you told

the car’s recognition software

to head straight out

of this god-forsaken town

be glad you’re not deported

have your wits about you too

and despite the smoke and mirrors

still can recognize a clown when

it’s propped up in front of you