The poem describes how one's view of the world can quickly change from serene to facing limits and scars. It reflects on finding reasons for so many to die and memories rushing up to loved ones in sadness mixed with war and gloom. The world is seen as full of maniacs demanding protection, and the poem imagines a future where everyone wakes up on the moon, seeing things in a new light and thinking how it all could have been different.

5. If Only
by Adam
Take a snapshot view of your world
One that is sedate and serene
You’re at the top and it’s not a dream
You look out and everything’s fine
And in a New York minute you’re spun on a dime
Suddenly you are face to face
With the limits of Company ambition
And the scars of America’s political marketplace
Ever close your eyes
Ever think why?
Sit, really think and listen
Find a reason for so many to die
No sign of life, it’s all gone
Take a walk in an empty room
Memories come rushing up to loved ones now
Sadness is mixed with war and gloom
You know it never ceases to amaze you and me
This world where we just exist
Is absolutely full of maniacs and crazies
Who demand protection from a well-produced list
You know I can’t help thinking
That one day soon
We will all wake up
We will all be on the moon
Soaring above the heavens
Looking back on what has been
Seeing things we’ve never really seen
Thinking how it all could have been
If only the Moon had stayed up
If only the Sun hadn’t woke
If everyone were late for work
They would have been warned off by the smoke
If Only
©2001, Adam Quin