Ode to a Septic System
(on hearing that the average life expectancy
of a septic system is 18 to 24 years)
No wonder that my span is slim
my options few, my future dim
I sit here in the dark and murk
and all I ever do is work
The work I do is sorely needed
yet always passes by unheeded
what I am given to digest
is looked away from by the rest
A bacterium my only friend
charming fellow, but in the end
all he ever does is eat
he really isn’t very neat
Working without ever a stop
until I’m filled up to the top
rotten stuff, very unhealthy
never makes you wise or wealthy
Is it any wonder my days are few
when buried in eternal goo?
No one cares for me up above
what they send down sure isn’t love
But pity me not in all this rot
for in this world this is my lot
but when you next think of septic power
perhaps send down a fragrant flower.
—Ira Ockene
Partridge Hill Road
