The laboured slump
The laboured slump
Into dotage
Is not a disease
But an encumbrance.
When a body is locked out
Not in
Without a key
Unable to walk or talk
Paraplegic
Quadriplegic
Incontinent
Without the where-with-all to self-care
Understand the intention
Of others
Accept the consequences of
Their actions
Have limited intellectual capacity
A severe learning disability
A failure to thrive
Without artificial intervention
And yet
Medication withdrawal
Is an avenue
Openly discussed,
The quality of life
Versus life extension
A matter of debate.
My oh my
Mister medical officer
How we change the third-degree
Of philosophical discourse
As old age sneaks up.
When do we stop being
A gift to the world
And become a beastly burden
Hindrance to progress
A drain on the coffers.
As a final act,
Who gets to guide
A baby boomer
Into the chamber?
Nurse Ratchet
Doctor Mengele
The Angel of Death?