Spare the World
An original apocalyptic sci-fi poem
We are always faced with the end of the world.
When I was in college, the Y2K glitch was supposed infect our computers and cripple modern civilization. Nothing of note happened. Then, the world was supposed to be destroyed in a cataclysm once the Mayan calendar allegedly ran out in December 2012. We all rang in 2013 without incident.
Each time a predicted apocalypse fails to deliver, the goalposts get moved forward to a new impending doom. Tough to sell prepper supplies and sensational end time books if you’ve got no catastrophic scenarios to prep for.
Today’s poem dips into the sci-fi realm. What if a time traveler were responsible for averting predicted apocalyptic events? Does their intervention make the world better or worse?
A strange visitor claimed a barstool. Offered a weary, sardonic grin. Their dark, piercing eyes probed me. Sent goosebumps across my skin. A shot glass lifted high to heaven. Bourbon their lone friend. Medicine for a soul torn asunder. Wounds too deep to mend. “It isn’t worth the effort, you know? Everything I’ve ever done. Changing the world and our future. Meaningless. It saves no one.” Words crafted to mystify. Couched in an outlandish claim. Polishing a different glass. I silently puzzled over their aim. “Stopped an invasive bug Built to make computers drown. What was my reward? Two towers tumbling down.” “Extended an ancient calendar Beyond apocalyptic strife. Then a simple disease Disrupted every single life.” “Expiration dates only shift forward. When does the madness subside? One change breeds another. I want off this apocalyptic ride!” A slammed down glass punctuated. Their loud, frustrated rant. The cosmos denied wish fulfillment. Flicked them away like an ant. They stabbed their lanky index finger. Left an ominous warning with me. “Saving your world is now a lost cause. Enjoy what lies ahead in 2030.” Then the stranger abruptly departed. Without another word said. Their face and their message lingered. Festered inside my head. Were they a secret powerful being? Molding time and space? Did they just throw in the towel? Give up on the human race?
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Nice! It’s been that kind of month!