Screen monkeys tech junkies
Suddenly remember
There’s a world outside
And it’s called “nature”

Desperate to get some air
After years of air conditioning
Leveling up their workouts
After years of slouchy sitting

How are you holding up,
If you don’t mind me asking?
I’ve been in quarantine
Two years and counting

Half an hour of sky and earth
On alternate days
Otherwise stay indoors
Away from smoke and haze

Going out, just for fun
Once a month or twice
Finally I get to
Wear something nice

Can I go out with you?
Must I stay behind?
All instructions are
Carved in my mind

“Don’t go there
If it’s too crowded
Don’t touch the button
Use elbow instead

Wash your hands
Cover your face
Never eat at an
Inexpensive place

Wallet, keys, food and water
Pack of tissues, sanitiser
And if I don’t carry my pills
I can’t stay out much later

Do whatever gives the
Illusion of safety
I’m up for a challenge
But not my immunity

I look with envy
At the open lawn below
Can I meet my friends
If my counts are low?

You dream of the “normal”
You cross off the date
I dream too, but my
Timeline’s indefinite

When the lockdown lifts
The world will move past
I don’t know how long
My quarantine will last.