‘The world is so messed up
that I’m afraid
it won't be long
before it turns red
(like Mars)
and becomes
nothing but just another ugly
lifeless sphere
in the universe.
But then, you won’t have to worry
and have sleepless nights in your bed.
By the time all this happens
you will be long dead.’
I said all this to the man
sat next to me
on the long journey
to my village.

He looked at me and said,
'Madam are you a pessimist?
I don’t really like what
I have just heard.
Try to say something pleasant
or don’t say a word.'

31.1.06

Arsiema Berhane

http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/strangers-are-strange/