This rat race that 
We are trapped in, 
Feels inescapable, 
Immutable.

"Remember the bright side!" 
Nameless, faceless voices chant when shoving 
Their positivity down your throat, 
Restricting.

"Is this marketable?" seems to be 
The only question all art is asked, 
Stifling soul and creativity, 
Conforming.

This rat race that we 
Live our lives in, 
Is all that we will know, 
Forever.

– Arsh