After the book came SparkNotes,
prepared at a moment’s notice
to simplify character, plot, and theme
for those who need the classics
with less language
and sophistication.
Tired of studying? Sponsored ads
offer competing models of interest
with informative captions like
“Find Your Secret Crush Now”
and “Cutest Celebs on Twitter.”
You can click them with the time
you’ve saved from reading,
or maybe take “The Dating Quiz.”
Sometimes it feels like cheating,
but you’re no English Major—
you’re just taking the elevator
over the tedious, winding steps
of really thinking for yourself.
Yes, at this rate, when you grow up
and work some non-literary job
full time, cook dinner, change laundry,
and at last retire to the recliner,
you can then finally watch breaking news
without forming a single opinion
but somebody else’s.
(Photo Credit: SparkNotes)