We Want More Bang

By Steve Rodriguez

Summer night event.
San Diego tradition.
Fireworks above

Sea World and the Bay.
Big blasts disrupt the silence,
erasing the calm

of night time routines
as we claim entitlement
to fun explosions.

Such demonstrations
suit our American style.
Loud, dominant bursts.

Patriotic sounds
signaling power and might.
Plus disturbing mirth,

for how much longer
can we turn a deaf ear to
the consequences?

The family dog,
loyal friend, reacts to fear
of harsh eruptions.

Bird sanctuaries
rocketed by commotion.
Panic flights ensue,

while chemicals fall
into the very waters
surrounding Shamu.

Complaints of particulate
matter drowned out by sky show
shock and awe delight.

Less spectacular
soft drone fetes a substandard
fit for fulfillment.

Greater light and sound –
the public demands louder,
more explosive pop.

Too hard to stop now,
to relinquish those bigger
booms and brighter lights.

Launch the dazzling flares.
Turn up the decibels, please.
Deliver the bang.