by Steven Kent

“‘Rich Men North of Richmond’ singer condemns Republicans after song used in debate”
—The Guardian

Now listen to me, hoss:
Remember when The Boss
Was real misunderstood in ’84?
When Reagan tried to say
“Born in the USA”
Is rah-rah optimistic to its core?

The time is out of joint;
Again you’ve missed the point
Invoking me this way. (What else is new?)
How dare you quote my song
And get it so, so wrong—
I’m singing here about the guys like you!