avatarJonathan Greene

Summary

The text is a contemplative poem reflecting on the concept of a "life adjacent," a parallel existence where humans live in harmony with nature and lead better, more fulfilling lives, contrasting sharply with our current, simulated reality marred by environmental degradation and capitalistic exploitation.

Abstract

"Life Adjacent" is a thought-provoking poem that imagines a utopian existence parallel to our own. It suggests that our reality might be a flawed simulation, with a "real" version of ourselves living in a world where environmental conservation is prioritized, and societal values are aligned with sustainable living. The poem paints a vivid picture of this alternate reality, where pollution is nonexistent, and human activities coexist with a thriving natural environment. It criticizes the current state of affairs, where economic growth often comes at the expense of the planet's health. The author, Jonathan Greene, expresses a desire to escape the confines of this simulation and embrace the idyllic life adjacent, where humanity has evolved beyond its destructive tendencies to create a society that values and preserves the beauty of the world.

Opinions

  • The author implies that our current reality is a simulation that pales in comparison to an ideal, parallel existence.
  • There is a belief that in the "life adjacent," humans have chosen a path that prioritizes the environment and communal well-being over capitalist expansion.
  • The poem conveys a sense of frustration with the state of the world, particularly with the impact of human activities on the environment.
  • It suggests that in this better version of reality, people live in harmony with nature, enjoy better health, and have a deeper appreciation for each other.
  • The author questions the purpose and control of the simulation we are supposedly living in, wondering about the intentions of its creator.
  • There is a longing expressed for the ability to transition from the current, flawed reality to the more desirable "life adjacent."

Life Adjacent

A Poem

Photo by Nine Köpfer on Unsplash

Maybe this is a computer simulation and we have another version of us, the real person behind the curtain, operating in a life adjacent that is better than the sim

There we are better at everything, just one step over from here, and everything is better with us as forests bloom in harmony with an environment accepting of all its riches

Pollution is not a word in life adjacent as those humans chose to protect instead of scale-up capitalistic ideals and in so doing, left pure air for the real us to breathe

While we are hiding in our sim houses, our life adjacent is full of bounty Endless trails to exercise on, meditation as a job requirement, and true admiration for one another

This simulation sucks, it can’t be mine so I wonder whose sim I am in Who is guiding this ship toward wreckage? Because whoever it is playing this game I wish they would stop and let us all live in life adjacent

© Jonathan Greene 2020

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Poetry
Life
Simulation
Society
Culture
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