The Source Arts & Literature section highlights the work of our creative readers. All visual artists and creative writers are encouraged to share with us new works. Please see below for full submission guidelines.
2025
“Mr. Officer, please, what did you stop me for?”
“To be unvaccinated is now against the law.
I have to put on handcuffs and take you to the jail.
Prepare for the long haul, no way you’re making bail.”
On another day in the realm of life,
This man was home making love to his wife.
Progress was good, things were getting hot,
He was vaccinated, alas, she was not.
Enforcement officers banged on the door,
With a gasp she lowered herself to the floor.
“It’s your last chance,” the stern man said,
“Either vaccinate, or your marriage is dead.”
Then on to the next house they went,
With strict orders from the Top, they were sent.
They moved silently like ghosts in the night,
The timing of this one had to be right.
The mother had completed the bedtime story,
In just a few minutes she would lose custody.
To their father the children all were sent,
And off to the jail the mother went.
“There’s a fellow hiding over here,
He’s not vaccinated, to that I swear.”
The scared lad ran away in a mad dash,
He jumped over the pier and made a splash.
“Well done, now, thank you, my son,
Go and claim the reward that you have won.”
He looked up at the officer with a grin,
But the one who jumped over – he couldn’t swim!
The pain was intense, she tried hard not to scream,
Then a tiny head could barely be seen.
The doctor took with care the baby from the womb,
The newborn got vaccinated right there in the room!
With a swipe of your device, you could take a Covid test,
And the app on your phone would do all the rest.
Your vaccination status – now so easy to tell,
Certain days you could vaccinate your pet as well.
Long lines for services were a thing of the past,
Quarantine and mask wearing were over at last.
But what would become of the human race
When all the vaccinated relocate to outer space?
Sandra C. Bradley is a Source reader who loves to explore the power of words, the pits of an avocado and the peacefulness of nature.
Poetry and creative prose submissions are limited to 1,500 words and should include a brief bio of the writer. Visual art submissions should include at least one high-quality image or video and a very brief bio along with an artist’s statement that speaks to the inspiration of the work. The statement should include the title if there is one, the medium used and what the work means to you.
Please send submissions and questions to visourceart@gmail.com.
