the phone keeps ringing
at odd times of day,
creditors seeking redress
of their grievances, prompt
payment of the debts they
claim to hold. they offer
terms--if one would answer
the demanding, ringing phone.
no one is home, though.
or at least, we pretend not to be
present. the telephone may make
its presence known, demand attention.
we just unplug it,
we just turn down the volume
so we won't hear its persistent rings.
Callers cannot reach through to us,
insist that we pay attention--
pay homage--
pay the damned debt.
too many distractions,
too many shows still to see
from the nearest DVR,
too many websites to browse,
too many Youtube videos.
demand never intersects
with consent.
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