The 21st Century
is being built
on 20th-century concrete.
Concrete cracks
like my sandy-colored face
under a Global Warming sun.
I transverse down Madison Street
carrying a plastic bag
made from petroleum
in my rubber shoes
made from petroleum
as I wear my plastic glasses
made from petroleum.
All this petroleum
gives Global Warming
a hot invitation
into our heliocentric home.
In the 22nd century, I bet
petroleum will seep
into human bloodstreams.
In 2025, I step off Madison
into Oakland History Center.
I’m ready to absorb
the 20th-century history
I failed to learn in school.