Publisher's Synopsis
The Precipice follows from my previous works, Behind the Facade and Rise. This work finds itself at the place in which the world now collectively holds its breath as we try to overcome the existential threats currently facing humanity. However, the threats of climate change and nuclear war have a common underlying cause: rising inequality.
In this context, inequality is, at its core, the battle of people over profit. Extreme wealth is growing to become an unaccountable governing power (as money transforms into power) around the world and, as such, becomes a threat to the world.
It's time to get political, for people to participate in the debate, to examine where we stand, and decide what kind of future world we want. In short, it is time for some deep reflection. These conversations help inform public opinion that, in turn, has the power to guide government policy. A government is nothing without the support of the people.
There are some pressing issues to take another look at, such as the function of an economy. I believe its role is to civilise trade, but in order to do that, it must put people before profit; it is the only way to achieve a decent society. A society that can resist the shackles of minority rule can solve the core issue of inequality.
Within a more equal world, the collective self-interest would shift to protecting life rather than exploiting it. For who would choose to be exploited if they had the power to choose?
Humanity may be on the precipice, but a better world is possible. Feeling secure is the starting point: when we are secure, we are able to cultivate productivity and create beauty.
This poetry collection confronts the world unapologetically as it is, an unequal world facing the ramifications of gross inequality. We have the resources to solve our problems. Will we address the core issue of our existential crisis, or will we continue the delusion of tinkering at the edges?
A brief overview of the two books that set the groundwork for this collection.
Behind the façade
Actions flow through from me to you
Connecting all paths, all walks of life
No island escapes what the weather brings
Brought together by a common thread
Binding ever tighter
Rise
Not fit for purpose, a ruling class
Capitalism rules with absolution
People come second, earth a distant third
The race is over, we all lost
Change is on the way, one way or another
