By The “Pandemic Paralysis” series is one in which the author will be exploring the effects of social distancing during the pandemic for those suffering from mental health challenges, and how the pandemic has exacerbated these challenges. Says the author, “I think many women can relate to how much more they are all of a sudden responsible for, while it seems the same standards as always are in place for men.” The poem “The Chopping Block” is the first part of the series, which is a satire on having a career as a woman.
As I come upon my
Chopping I would like
To test out how well
My neck fits in the curves
Sir, for I am but a delicate
Creature, forever at the foot
Of all that grow that from me
And you, if you would oblige
Of me, Sir.
So I ask, May I test out the
Chopper? After all, I may
Prefer the stove.
You never know, For I don’t
Know if this is meant for me, Sir
Even the curve in the block is too
Big, for me, Sir.
May I have a new one?