Ballad of a Pandemic
Navigating Fear and Kindness: Ballad of a Pandemic by Matt Maltese
Lyrics
I got a fake tin hat and a pin on my chest
I am symbolically wearing a fake tin hat and a pin on my chest.
I got a disinfected scarf on my neck
I have a disinfected scarf around my neck as a precautionary measure.
There’s a lot on our plate and I don’t mean food
There are significant challenges we face, not related to food.
There’s a lot of bad things that could really hurt you
There are numerous threats that have the potential to cause serious harm.
I’m scared
I am experiencing fear.
I’m afraid of dying as much as the next guy
I fear death just like any other person.
I want you to be fine more than I can describe
I wish for your well-being more than words can express.
Sit tight on your couch like a soldier in a dressing gown
Stay confined to your couch, resembling a soldier in a dressing gown.
Wear plastic gloves and please don’t come around
Use plastic gloves and avoid coming into contact with others.
I’m scared
I am experiencing fear.
And help your neighbour
Encourage helping your neighbor.
Even if they’re not nice
Even if they are not pleasant, extend a helping hand.
Help your neighbour
Extend assistance to your neighbor.
Even if they’re hostile
Even if they are unfriendly, offer help.
When it couldn’t get worse it does just that
When it seems things cannot worsen, they do.
Death is exponential but this life is flat
Death is increasing rapidly, contrasting with the stagnant nature of life.
And I’m borderline too mushy about this
I might be overly sentimental about this situation.
But if you’re not kind now then your eulogy will stink
If you are not compassionate now, your eulogy will reflect poorly on you.
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