WOLF ALICE & CAMPER VAN BEETHOVEN LIVE AT THE ADAM SMITH INSTITUTE

Had a dream last night and everyone was coughing
In therapy today she forgets why we’re here

Tell me about a recent social situation that made you anxious?
I’ve not been in a social situation for the last two years

Everybody’s going out for lunch these days
So, jealous of your newfound laissez-faire

I buy tickets for a concert that I’m aching for
But in my scared heart I know I won’t go.

Re-sell them at face-value in a free-market economy
The Adam Smith Institute must think that I’m ill.

DOORS AT SEVEN. MASKS OPTIONAL. ADMISSION RIGHTS RESERVED.
OVER 18S, WITH WORKING IMMUNE SYSTEMS ONLY.

Last night there were two-hundred people in the room.
Walls sweat-shimmered, shoulders condensed, screaming tears,

You’re a Germ, kinetic hormones released.
Words now airborne, choruses viral.

I stay at home in my germ-free convalescence
Playing scratched old records for the left behind.

Jamie Woods.

First published in Poetry Wales