Work from 2000 to 2025

By Andrew R. Duckworth

Hard work.
Meaningful work.
Not having limitless resources
On a device that fits in the pocket.

Using tools,
We do it often,
As long as some machine produces them,
Because machines are the inevitable future.

What if I asked you what a dictionary is?
What do you know of an encyclopedia?
No, without that thing in your hand.
What happens when machines malfunction?
Aha! More machines… got it…
Machines to fix machines.

You need support?
There’s a number for that now.
A live agent?
Of course not!
Don’t be Ridiculous!
It’s automated now.
Just answer the 572 questions.
If you mess up, you’ll have to restart.
What do you mean “no time”?
Just get a machine to cover you!

What do you mean “mechanic”?
Our machines fix machines.
What do you mean “artist”?
Artificial Intelligence produces imagery.
What do you mean “musician”?
Computers produce sound.
What do you mean “instructor”?
Children are taught by screens.
What do you mean “receptionist”?
People check in on a pad.
What do you mean “doctor”?
Machines are more reliable.
What do you mean “lawyer”?
Cameras everywhere record crimes.
What do you mean “analyst”?
What do you mean “barista”?
What do you mean “sales person”?

What do you mean “work”?
Machines will do that now.
Computers will do that now.
Artificial Intelligence will do that now.
Technology will do that now.

Lazy.
Unable and unwilling.
Having limitless resources
On a device that fits in the pocket.