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.
Big, Beautiful Bill
Are you ready for the arrival of a bouncing baby boy?
It’s really an occasion that should fill us all with joy.
Yet some are standing by with scalpel and with knife,
Others are loudly shouting, ”Please call for the midwife!”
While doctors and nurses were tending to him still,
We learned that this infant child would soon be named Bill.
He was quite a big baby; his voice was loud and clear.
The first words he uttered: “tax breaks for you, my dear!”
With 100+ godparents, he passed from hand to hand,
But to coordinate his feedings seemed hard to understand.
Some added to his diet, some chose to take away.
Perhaps it was the formula – was it made in the USA?
His father called him beautiful – that’s in the beholder’s eye,
For the changes he was bringing could cause poor folk to die!
He didn’t seem to care how he widened inequity,
After all, he was simply just a really big baby!
Many called for a spanking, more sang a lullaby,
But it really didn’t matter, this baby wouldn’t cry!
No matter how you rocked him, he wouldn’t fall asleep,
He kept the house awake one night; this baby wasn’t meek!
When some babysitters came, he would smile and coo with glee,
And find a way to help them stash their wealth in his potty!
Seemed like he was displaying some hyperactivity,
He was redesigning our very own economy!
Uncle Eli cautioned that his tantrums were too much,
With the people he impacted, he was clearly out of touch!
We’re really worried now, but can you imagine when
This youngster Bill would attain the age of ten?
We all will be affected by this looming triple B,
Should we put him in timeout? Adopt a wait-and-see?
Here’s my simple suggestion, I don’t think it’s out of range.
It’s time for this big baby to have a diaper change!
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.
