(A Lockdown Lament)
Instead of studying, revising,
Working hours upon focused hours
We drag our tired brains
To the computer
Completing what is necessary
And then collapse
Exhausted by the imposed
Structure and normality
Instead of partying, dancing,
Drinking in the way that is unwise
But totally necessary at our age
We have to hold back
On that comforting hot chocolate
Because without leaving the house
More conscious efforts
Have to be made
To maintain a healthy shape
Instead of discovering, appreciating,
Learning our place in this world
We are left to our screens
That have been demonised by our elders
As our lifeline to our friends,
And the normal we try to maintain
Holding onto it greedily
In hands that could do
with another bout of sanitiser
Instead of thriving, living,
We exist out of necessity
Hand washing; now a survival technique
Avoiding the news; a preservation of our mental health
Some of the fear
Is outdone
By the kindness
But the endless questions
Just leave me craving sleep
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