I like persons—

    Individuals that I meet and get to

    know, but

    I hate people.

As soon as they stop being individuals

And act collectively,

    As when they vote

    Or drive

    Or got o the mall

They become stupid

    And selfish

    And ignorant

—And worse!—proud of their ignorance,

    As if there were something a little suspect

    About knowing too much.

Perhaps the Fall of Eden remains in their hearts,

Though as individuals most people are fine.

I think the majority of people aren’t individuals at all

    Most of the time,

And I hate what they become in those moments.

11/30/00