Versione Italiana | Nota biografica | Versione lettura |
These days
democracy embraces us
everywhere
even in the cemetery
I rather like
the look of the cemetery
mathematical clean almost pretty
showing respect for the dead
I can remember a time
a cemetery was a no-go area
ghosts said to roam around
like cops looking for pass-books
the poor forgo their status
in the cemetery
tombstones mounted quickly
as if the dead hate being alone
this is big modern business
mourners provided refreshments like juices
as the coffin descends
into the gaping earth
but the dust clouds still disturb
likely to cause new ailments
as mourners sing joyfully
offering a fitting farewell to the departed
feeding programmes amaze
beef veg mabele-porridge for some
chicken rice salad choices for others
assured to accommodate class tastes
the wiping of after-tears
is a ritual along gender lines
for men to wash down dust-clouds
a few houses from the grieving
it is a matter of time
before we are asked
to vote for our favourite artist
from the music bellowing at the cemetery
It has come to this
that I see myself in the boardrooms
where I'm passed Castro's cigars
taste their exotic vintage wines
for this is the turn of the coin
It has truly come to this
listen to my new vocabulary
of liquidity and falling stocks
I talk of balance of payments
increased productivity and the future of economy
for my mind-set is framed for the times
Oh it had to come to this
I am learning fast
take your cue from my use of security
it used to refer to our burglar-proofing
now it's all about levels in the bank account
and that for sure makes for a good night's sleep
It has come to this
that I don't wear denims on week-days
I am meticulous about the shoes I wear
sensitive to the company I keep
buddies must talk to me on their cellular phone
since for sure shareholders keep an eye on me
O yes it has come to this
that I don't eat red meat anymore
just white meat and vegetables
evenings are spent at the gym
for my body weight can be a source of concern
for risk factors must be kept to a minimum