Unwanted Burdens

Problems aplenty, no relation one to another,  

They seem to grow like weeds,  

This annoying fly keeps returning shamelessly,  

What pleasure does it find landing on my body?  

Mosquitoes I understand—they feed on blood—but what do these nasty flies want?  

I am ruthless and mean, yet the fly won't go away,  

It spoiled my meditation this morning—I'm sure it's his cousin.  

These honors, dividends, and this life you never asked for,  

Now consciously you want to shed them, but it doesn't happen easily.

This poem evokes a strong sense of frustration and irritation, with a central metaphor of an annoying fly representing persistent, unrelated problems. The speaker expresses a feeling of being overwhelmed by these issues, likening them to weeds that keep growing. The fly, which disrupts the speaker's meditation, symbolizes the seemingly minor but incessant troubles that intrude on their peace. The comparison to mosquitoes, which have a clear motive, contrasts with the fly’s inexplicable persistence, heightening the sense of confusion and helplessness. The closing lines reflect a desire to shed unwanted burdens, accolades and life, emphasizing the difficulty of letting go of these unasked-for honours, responsibilities and life.