The building leaves an envelope
for the rent under my door.
I slip in a check
and push it back out.
My bills get paid online
and delivery services are fast and efficient
in my neighborhood.

I am never leaving my house again.
There is no space for me
in the outside world
where I can be seen
in a way
I do not wish to be.
I will not subject myself to that
nor any other.
I will remain at home
where it is safe.

I have my books and poetry here
and have no need for anything
that remains in the ravages
beyond my window.
I can ignore the apocalypse
of the modern
and stay protected
behind lock and key.

This is the place for me now.
This is the land I shall haunt.
This is all the world I need
from this day forward.