The Serpent
wraps itself
like a chord
around the ego
of humanity,
strangling like
the headline
villain of
a newspaper.
Promises of grandeur;
a parallel path;
the onramp to
the Fall.
About the Creator
Randy Baker
Poet, author, essayist.
My Vocal "Top Stories":
* The Breakers Motel * 7 * Holding On * Til Death Do Us Part * The Fisherman
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More stories from Randy Baker and writers in Poets and other communities.
Why Black History Matters in America?
The United States of America is celebrating their 250th anniversary in 2026. I'm proud to be an American and as someone who was born here, I wouldn't imagine myself living anywhere else. This is a country where opportunities are possible. Where anyone can be successful in anything they desire to do. Equality, community, and togetherness are the backbones of what America is and should be about. However, we have an administration who wants to erase and disregard those who have made positive, meaningful impacts in our country, specifically Black figures, such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Rosa Parks, and Maya Angelou. President Trump and his administration have been constantly complaining and fighting against what they call the "Woke agenda". They use this excuse as a distraction from other issues they refuse to address, such as the high cost of living, climate change, and inflation. That equality is dividing America, when in reality, it's bringing us together. Being woke is not tied to a specific political party. No matter where you stand on the political spectrum, you can still care about other people and their plights. Compassion and empathy for others isn't tied to a political party, either. We were taught as children to treat others the way we want to be treated and not judge others because they're different from us. Caring about others isn't a personal attack on your beliefs. It doesn't make you any less of a person. People who are easily offended over African American figures, past or present, or anything related to it, are grasping at straws. Current and future generations need to know who people like Harriet Tubman and Shirley Chisholm were, especially in the classroom. Black History is part of American History. It should be recognized, not hidden or forgotten. Besides, you can't shield children from everything, just because your feelings are easily hurt.
By Mark Wesley Pritchard 4 days ago in The Swamp
Comments (9)
I love the phrase 'ego of humanity'. This is a great poem
so much said in so few words. Great take
Really liked how the last three lines built so powerfully!! Nicely done!
This one hit home, especially with what's going on in the world. Another wonderful poem, Randy!
Great take on the challenge
The biblical undertone and the metaphors in this are really good. Personally, I strongly dislike snakes, yet every blue moon I write about them and force myself to look at their images to overcome my fear.
Great lines, all!
Love this short powerful style!
Excellent work Randy. You touch on several topics - good vs. evil, misleading headlines from the media, fake promises and manipulation from politicians, and misguided paths—entangle humanity and lead to its downfall.