"A mathematical equation whereby something is multiplied by itself to create an even bigger number."
A hundred flashing pictures created by a million glistening light bulbs. Images of a thousand grinning celebrities beaming onto a population of self devouring locusts. All strutting their stuff like the next undiscovered superstar. Self image sculptured by unattainable dreams. Unquestionable self importance fuelled by invisible gods. Material worship used to stave off an inevitable spiritual demise. Lights shining so brightly they create a tunnel vision by which nothing outside can be seen. Life bedazzled by colour hiding the greyness of lost souls. Black men jetwashing streets where rich and famous plant their feet.
And in the true mathematical equation of times squared the numbers reach ever absurd, dizzying magnitude. A thousand empty cabs looking for a single fare. Hundreds of hapless vendors trying to sell two dollar hats while a handful of cops govern shattered dreams. Numbers on top of numbers crushing ever dwindling souls. Diamonds and sequins sparkle the same in bright light harbouring demons afraid of the night.
Sweat stained caps and crushed linen jackets, turned up trousers and gum tacky sneakers. Buzzing on caffeine and wired for sound. People with destinations swanning in silence oblivious to what`s around. Baked by city heat, possessions in hand. Automated by contract to get on with their work, bound within reason from which they cannot shirk. Forward and back always in straight lines. Hunched and hobbling through tunnels and tubes. Lives existing to be constantly underused. Repeat prescriptions for another day wary of tourists who are not forced to stay. Guards in uniform hold the line watching millions of workers playing for time.