(A song-monologue on the first
anniversary of an election)

"Pretend that you care
Even if you don't.
Say you'll come through,
Even if you won't.
Surround yourself
With lackeys who will kiss
Your billionaire ***
Or else they'd be remiss.

"Pretend that you
Are richer than you are.
Keep on doing
What's gotten you this far.
Seek out help
From those who can provide
Ways to gather
Assets you can hide.

"Pretend religion
Means a lot to you.
Keep admirers
In your field of view.
They'll forgive you,
Even when you're rude.
They won't see
That they are being *******.

"Pretend your knowledge
Of history is vast.
Tell people your
Skills are unsurpassed.
If you remain
Stubborn and opaque,
Your fans will not
See that you're a fake.

"Pretend that your country--
Ever since your youth--
Has meant more than money,
Though that's not the truth.
Divisiveness
Works like a charm.
Lying won't
Do any harm.

"Pretend you're loyal.
Loyalty is grand--
At least until
Inquiries expand.
If your cronies
Ever cause a fuss,
You can throw them
Under the bus.

"Pretend that you
Are stronger than you feel.
Just keep on
Polishing your spiel.
Continue to threaten
To silence the news.
You as the leader
Can do as you choose.

"Pretend…
Just pretend…
Just pretend."

-by Bob B (11-8-17)