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Poem: "The American Dream"

This poem came out of the December 4, 2018 Poetry Fishbowl. It was inspired by prompts from Anthony Barrette and my_partner_doug. It has been sponsored by Anthony & Shirley Barrette.

Warning: This poem contains political criticism.


"The American Dream"


I dream the American Dream.

I dream of immigrants coming
to a new land with all bright hope
and building a great nation there.

I dream of opportunities
to start a new business and
create financial security.

I dream of a meritocracy
where people work hard
to move up in the world.

I dream of an economy
where workers can save up
to buy a house and put in
a white picket fence.

I dream of a society in which
people fall in love, get married,
and have children and pets.

I dream of a culture that
encourages folks to get a car
or a bike and travel to see it all.

I dream of a more perfect union
in which all people are created equal
and endowed with the rights of life,
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.


Then I wake up, and Trump is still president.

* * *

Notes:

Here are the top ten American Dreams.
1. Love
2. Financial Security
3. Starting a Business
4. Fame
5. Job
6. Home owner
7. Travel
8. Children
9. Car
10. Pets

Some phrases in the poem come from the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence.