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Social Distancing

by Chris Sorrenti


Never had a problem with the meaning of the term
Being the semi-recluse that I am
Long past the days of social gathering and organizing
After years of elbow to elbow
With colleagues and strangers
Happy to let the outside world pass me by

But now that the choice has been taken away
Leaves an unsettled feeling
In my stomach and mind
Things I once took for granted, even disliked
Like dentist and doctor appointments
To get me out of the house
Chase away that cabin fever just enough
To remind me what I was no longer missing

Was a time in the recent past
I’d hop in the car or on a bus
Just to be somewhere/anywhere but here
People-watching a hobby of mine
And in some cases, interacting
To shrug off those sociopathic tendencies
Appears I was born with
In the process often delivering new poetry

And now
Except for trips to the grocery store
All I have left are the radio, TV and computer
Which in and of themselves won’t do the trick
Especially when the government keeps reminding me
To stay at home and away from others
Or we might have to arrest your ass
If the bug hasn’t already killed you


© 2020

880 hits as of February 2024


03/24/2020

Author's Note: In response to well wishers on Facebook: I just want to thank everyone for your Likes and Loves, and even tears in response to this poem. I was both shocked and pleased at its quick and positive response from so many. One of those poems I wish I could write all the time, but so many factors play into the mix. Sometimes though, as with this one, everything falls quickly into place, striking a collective nerve in everyone. <3

Posted on 03/24/2020
Copyright © 2024 Chris Sorrenti

Member Comments on this Poem
Posted by Michele Schottelkorb on 03/24/20 at 07:53 AM

ah, and here we are, old friend. well done...

Posted by Wendy Sparling on 03/25/20 at 04:53 PM

Luckily, I'm not alone in my house during this pandemic or I would go nuts. Your poem strikes a familiar chord for all of us. Thanks for your brilliant poem from your bud, Wendy. You're not alone <3

Posted by Angela Stevens on 04/14/20 at 07:25 PM

I am alone in my household. History of mental health problems. Heard the first voices in ages but they are only saying 'hello' in raspy tones right now (I will officially crap myself if they start speaking sentences). Queued for 1 hour 15 minutes to get medication on Saturday which I am only taking half a dose of to stop me having to queue again. My Mum was always there protecting me but she's since passed. No help. No support with mental health. If I had a gun then I would shoot myself. Good poem, though.

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