Like chipmunks to crabapples
chomping the treat abandoned by larger squirrels
you take what you can get
Like promises of infatuation
that give way to lust or stick it out for love
you play the hand you’re dealt
Like the latest narrative of propaganda
distorted through the filter by CNN
you gag to clear the system
Like a vampire holed up in the basement
regurgitating fifty years of confidence man BS
you keep an eye on your own neck
Like a serpent that creeps up slowly
slithering lies about their ancient track record
you squint and notice the rattle
Like an inferno tearing through the city’s heart
gaining kindling with each tacit wink and nod
you see the way the smoke blows