We really have come a long way since our ancestors;
From scientific to social advancements, we have many accolades to our name.
Unless the matter in question concerns animals,
In which case, we’re still quite the same.
The very thought of a slaughterhouse makes us queasy;
It’s disgusting. We can’t stand it.
But when it comes to eating that meat,
Then it’s delicious! We’re all for it.
Provided it’s cow or sheep or pig or chicken of course,
Since it can’t just be any old animal.
If it’s dog or cat or horse, we can’t possibly eat it;
That’s an outrage! What a scandal!
Because dogs and cats and horses are all too cute;
Even though we always talk about how appearances shouldn’t be important to us;
Even though cows and sheep and pigs and chickens are also living, breathing animals;
But these things only apply when they’re convenient to us.
These are the Ideals of the Modern World,
Which all of us abide by.
We are the most empathetic and compassionate species on the planet,
Yet every second, for our selfish wants, we let animals die.
About the Author
Hi, I’m Avnie. I love reading and travelling. I’ve been a vegetarian my whole life – initially under my parents’ influence, but once I was old enough to make the decision for myself, I chose to stick to vegetarianism. Somehow, the idea of eating other creatures that were once alive didn’t appeal to me. In recent years, I’ve also developed an interest in animal welfare. It is these beliefs and experiences of mine that pushed me to write this poem, addressing the hypocritical views of almost every non-vegetarian I have ever met.
Editor's Note
Something that constantly inspires me about young writers is their passion for doing the right thing, making the world better, and undoing the wrongs of previous generations. I think we can all learn a lot from listening to these young voices.
I think this poet has done a great job of translating their passion to the page so that we really feel it – something that is often very difficult when you’re very angry about something. There’s a calm certainty here that really stops you in your tracks. I think the use of rhyme in the piece is very sophisticated and adds to the weight of the words, and I think the argument is crafted in such a way that this piece will cause the exact kind of discomfort and self-reflection in those who hear it as the writer intends. Poetry can change the world, and I’m always delighted to see young writers engaged in this project.
