Remember when we wrote things
For other folks to read
That answered all their questions
Or satisfied a need?
And sometimes we would write things
To create a laugh or smile,
To push you through a challenge
And inspire you through a trial.
Now we write for metrics
Like “likes” and “views” and “shares”
And instead of smiles and laughter
We get 100-mile stares.
But if we write the things we like
And refuse to drink
That vile-flavored Kool-Aid
Called “What other people think”
Perhaps we’ll crack a smile
Or persevere ourselves
Until we write a something
That can decorate your shelves.