Cloning is a staple of many science fiction stories. Many stories involving clones are cautionary tales exploring themes of individuality and identity. If you have a clone who looks like you, talks like you, and acts like you, this offers an existential dilemma — are you still a unique person or a mass-produced assembly line product?
One idea driving cloning in the sci-fi realm is the concepts of assigning unwanted jobs and tasks to clones. This ostensibly frees up the people using clones for other more desirable pursuits.
Such a notion inspired my latest sci-fi poem.
A clone offered the answer. This new blank slate. Designed to my specifications. A fresh lump of clay. Engineered to work. Programmed to obey. No more 9-to-5 grind. Chained to a cubicle. The clone runs the rat race. Appeasing tyrannical bosses. Chasing elusive wins. Taking endless losses. Home is a sanctuary. My new cathedral of peace. Free from bickering kids and a nagging wife. No mundane chores. Family life is clone life. Energy infuses my body. Locked doors open. My dormant mind lives. A simple command. Compels the clone to tackle. Random tasks at hand. Pursuing forgotten dreams An empty canvas. Creating a new creation. Everything ahead of me. A clone made possible. Becoming what I used to be.
If you enjoyed this poem, be sure to check out other poetry from past newsletters.
The “working man” is now obsolete.
A thought provoking poem! Reminds me a lot about the automation of some jobs in our present. Some people have an issue with it while others don’t.
Looking forward to more!
Wait, oh no, I'm a clone! Your sci-fi poetry is great and it's teasing me to try and write one on Notes.