CALM Publishing

THE CONSTANT SLIGHT STAGGER
The constant slight stagger
Resulting in many semi-intentional bumpings
Coagulating in small groups
Affinity by beverage
Earphones pump the volume
But those who want can talk
So the music is an individual thing
To be modulated to your liking
Couples, triples, etc. break off
Jerk around a-rhythmically
Sectors slump to the sand
Intoxicants wear off for some
Discussion ensues
Punctuated by inebriated exultation
They have worried themselves sick
For a year
School sports social life stunted
More time absorbed by screens
Now with many faces
In little windows
That can click on or off
Or be usurped by the teacher or boss
No squeals of objection
No expressions of innocence
Just gone
Their little rectangle disappears
Deep in the realm of the youth
Quiet ensues
Their world still parties
Though the glow fades quicker
With vaccines circulating in the veins
Along with the alcohol fix
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