A Break From Consumerism

They took TikTok down,
then put it back up,
so that around the clock they can surveil you—
with your user permission.

Whatever control of the narrative they can retain,
they will call the will of the people.

Forethought requires a life of abundance.
Yet you don’t want for much after a 60-hour workweek,
but for sleep,
and love,
and entertainment,
the necessities for survival.
Anything else, consumerism can provide.

Yet keeping up with the Joneses will make you sick.
But don’t worry—
they will sell you the medicine you need
at exorbitant prices,
through insurance brokers
they require you to have,
advertised by commercial spots during
your regularly scheduled programming.

And if they do not have your eyes locked on them,
then they will have you locked in subscription services—
more than you can count—
in hopes they can bleed more from you
than they can tax.

But don’t pay attention to that.
Just keep scrolling TikTok…

A Break from Consumerism by Spencer Spalding

Photo Credit: Nik on Unsplash