by Steven Kent

“Ohio residents demand answers two weeks after toxic chemical train derailment…
but Norfolk Southern Corporation skips event”
—The Guardian

Attention, folks, we didn’t mean to hurt you;
We’re part of this community, you see.
But while we’ve no intention to desert you,
Within your midst right now we dare not be.

We plan to send some money, never worry—
Don’t publicly denounce us, do not seethe.
We’ll come in time, although we’re in no hurry
(At present, all your air’s unsafe to breathe).

So tragic, really, this big conflagration,
Creating so much damage, so much pain,
Yet heed no siren song of regulation
That costs us several dollars more per train.