The Coiling Snakes

By Andrew R. Duckworth

It’s all connected under the surface,
A system of roots interlocking,
Stretching down deep,
All of it under the same banner.
And they’ll convince you
That they’re different
While shaking an oppressor’s hand
With a savage grin.
Don’t let them tell you
That they’re here to help
When they draw water
From the same well.
They’ll smile at your new ideas
And sell you all of the old ones.