Them Rules

Summary

"Them Rules" is a poem that reflects on the rigid and unfair societal rules that dictate one's existence and the futility of challenging them.

Abstract

The poem "Them Rules" by Daniel Clark delves into the theme of societal norms and the power structures that enforce them. It suggests that individuals have little to no agency over their lives, as they are bound by rules that are predetermined and non-negotiable. The poem compares the unfairness of these societal rules to the game of Monopoly, where one player can dominate others mercilessly. It also touches on the existence of loopholes that are inaccessible to the average person, emphasizing the inequality inherent in the system. The rules shape a broken world, perpetuating a cycle of misery and false hope for freedom. The poem conveys a sense of resignation towards these rules, acknowledging their indifference to individual plights.

Opinions

The poem expresses a critical view of societal rules, portraying them as inherently unfair and oppressive.
It likens the game of life to Monopoly, where the rich get richer, and the poor are inevitably left with nothing.
The author points out that while loopholes exist, they are not meant for the common person, reinforcing the idea of systemic inequality.
The rules are depicted as all-encompassing, shaping a world that is broken and filled with disaster and grief.
There is a sense of hopelessness conveyed, as individuals are trapped in a cycle of following rules that do not have their best interests at heart.
The poem suggests that despite the illusion of choice, people's lives are predetermined by societal structures beyond their control.

an angry poem

listen out for them rules cos you’re gonna have to follow ‘em

one day your name will be called & you’ll find out exactly how this game works

you have no voice no control them rules are non-negotiable they just exist & your existence is determined by them

them rules aren’t fair — have you played Monopoly? have you watched one person accumulate all the properties & charge you rent again & again & again until you’ve lost & you’re out? —

them rules are for you you learn your part & you read the lines dictated to you by your elders & betters you don’t squabble cos that’s not your job

there’s loopholes — oh boy are there loopholes — but they’re not for you

you don’t read small print cos that’s not your job

them rules shape a world that’s broken frame disaster surround grief trap you into a little pen where you roam miserably free to believe one day you might be free

rue them rules but know that they don’t care about you

Daniel Clark is a poet and a pessimist.

Poetry

Them Rules

an angry poem

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