Very Reasonable People scolded us
For our childish outbursts,
Our irrational fear of the dark.

We could rest in the knowledge
That the adults would see to our
Affairs and avert any apocalypse.

They chuckled at our concern
And assured us they had balanced
Checks in place for stability.

The Very Bad Things we’d heard
Of before didn’t happen in places
Like this to people like us.

People who know better than us
Had built robust systems to ensure
Both our safety and security.

I guess the people in the kitchen
Are the first to smell smoke, first to
Panic, and the first to escape.

The adults were gathered in the den,
Discussing strengths, weaknesses,
Opportunities and threats, even

As the smoke seeped under doors,
And through ventilation systems,
Before seizing their lungs.

Those who remain will mourn The Others,
Of course, and lie about how they
Always served the interests of their neighbors.