We get what we want
with consent
from the opposition
and if consent doesn’t come
we bomb.
That’s what we’re brought up on.
Children . . .
Don’t go along with the next one.
Everything you’ve got
hasn’t been
given but taken.
Please don’t do what
you shouldn’t.
We really aren’t that different.
Children . . .
Don’t go along with the next one.
We grow complacent
in this skin
with our pounds and pence
and better sins
forgiven.
Did we really let this happen?
Children . . .
Don’t go along with the next one.
The times come again
so sudden
and we let them keep coming
telling ourselves we haven’t
an option.
But yes
your children
will go along with the next one.
If you let them.
So give us consent
or get bombed
like the rest of them.
That’s the message we send
yet again
when they don’t listen.
Children . . .
Don’t go along with the next one.
If you don’t want.
It’s your decision.
Greg Fiddament
Illustration: Claire Palmer