Animal by Plena Irizarry

Why do I feel
like a beast,
a burro,
un animal?
Each morning
I head downtown
in a cage,
I work
in a cage,
forced to live
in a cage,
I'm told to behave
within the guidelines
of this cage,
that I should fear
those in charge
of this cage,
bow down
when I'm rewarded
in this cage,
told not to expect
anything more
other than the liberties
bestowed upon me
in this beautiful,
custom made,
limited edition,
lifelong,
heavy duty,
pre-approved,
no down payment,
as seen on tv,
dishpan and water pale
sold separately,
motherfuckingly frustrating,
bullet my voice to the sky,
confining enclosure
of counterfeit freedom.
And if at this moment
your instinct to judge
is kicking in,
if you feel inclined
to think I should be
more grateful for
what I have,
look around and notice
how your hands are clenched
around your own
designated set
of iron bars

Roberto Irizarry © 2010