Coronaverse

This little anthology is Nigel Capel’s response to the Coronavirus pandemic. Written largely during the first ten weeks of the ’lockdown’ in Germany (in March, April and May 2020), his rhymes are a reaction to the political, social and economic dislocation that has emerged with frightening speed in Europe and the wider world. The verses touch on the issues that we have all encountered to some degree as the worst pandemic in a century has killed tens of thousands, bereaved thousands of families, shaken communities, overstretched medical facilities, challenged medical researchers, damaged and closed businesses, and caused huge unemployment. The way in which the crisis has been handled in various countries has revealed the strengths and weaknesses of their leaders and even of their constitutional arrangements. As in war, truth was an early casualty, especially in countries whose leaders are determined to stay in office and pursue agendas that they set before the pandemic began, regardless of the consequences. Thank goodness, the pandemic has also produced multiple examples of heroism, diligence, resilience, compassion, empathy, self-sacrifice, generosity and creativity from frontline workers, volunteers, and ’ordinary’ citizens. The kindness of neighbours and even strangers in trying to support the elderly and vulnerable has been inspiring, too. These facts, combined with the sight of people singing from balconies and replacing live social and cultural activities with new and exciting online versions, helps to compensate for blatant profiteering by some businesses, the mindless selfishness of hoarders and the uncaring, ignorant attitude of those who choose to ignore advice on self-isolation, social distancing, hygiene and the wearing of face coverings.