Can You Sell This? Poem by Alessandra Liverani

We'll start you off on an easy task
Selling fresh air and freedom is all that I ask
You could use words like crisp and invigorating
Uplifting, refreshing, rewarding, rejuvenating

Hmmm, I don't think it's as easy as you say
Moreover, would you give me a big fat pay
If all I sold was freedom and fresh air
Releasing burdens, worries and a life of care

If I sold noxious fumes and slavery, I could get rich
I'd have to lie a little, a completely phony pitch
But who cares, I'd never get caught
My soul is one that is easily bought

Go ahead and tell all your lies
One day you'll wake up to a nasty surprise
Bringing misery and despair into this world
Into its depths you also were hurled

(Sydney, Australia - 2008)