A.I. May I? (Lewczyk/Tornblom)

The boy is guided from above

Under the guise of maternal love

Making sure he can’t be hurt 

Mother’s boy behind her skirt

In no way shall he be exposed

No boyish prank, no bloody nose 

No scabby knee, no dirty clothes

Mother, may I go out to play?

Mother, may I? It’s a sunny day. 

In the shadows of a darkened sky

All the crew will shout: “Aye, aye!” 

The captain’s stare surveys the deck

Who will he blame if they get wrecked?

No one escapes his scrutiny 

No chance of any mutiny

Only his might is their unity

Captain, may I stay ashore today?

Captain, may I? It’s a stormy day. 

Under the gaze of a silent drone

Angelic eye that protects its own

Secret data that tracks your score

Lets you know if you get more

Smartly tethered to your phone

Them the makers, us the clones

“We guarantee you won’t be alone.” 

A.I., may I go out to play?

A.I., may I negotiate my pay?

A.I., may I know what I can say?

A.I., may I stay alive today?