Don’t listen when people talk
about collective memories.

We both know it is hard enough
remembering what you experienced

and in the recalling we add filters
to bend it to how we wish it was.

If there were a collective memory
how could you despise the immigrant

who only wants the better life
that we talk about so much.

You do, although in terms a bit
less vicious than those who want

more than anything to hold power
and bend the country to their will.

Collective memory would remind you
that if you can’t claim tribal membership,

in your history there was an immigrant
and if you want them all out, they

and their children and children’s children
you had best buy a ticket for you

are exactly the kind of person that you
say has no place in this country now.