Lincoln Bagley - 2023

Artist's Statement

It may have seemed that while I was in class, I would push against the material that was being taught. I hope I never came off that I was trying to pick a fight just for the sake of picking a fight. I feel my intentions were pure as I tried to learn more and come to know what is true. I am not a climate change denier, but I can’t say that I am in full support of drastic changes to society and the economy in the name of climate solutions. When I hear something, and I am somewhat familiar with the counter argument, I want to hear what the responses would be. This poem is describing my inner turmoil as I became more and more confused with the differing opinions and facts that I hear regarding climate change. I want to do what is best, I want to help, but I am nervous of being deceived. There are so many influences in my life that have me being pulled in so many different directions.

Oh Where Do We Go?

I watch the news and read the facts,
but can I trust them, it might be an act.
Frustration and confusion fill my heart,
I want to have an impact but don’t know where to start.

Word on the street is things are dire,
but could it all be a fear mongering fire?
Yeah the weather is weird and strange,
but what do we fix? what do we change?

The journey of truth starts with educating myself,
I can learn the facts, and ask for help
The only problem, is all the opinions,
everyone is portraying the problem through their own lens

“climate change is real, climate change is fake,”
These aren’t dumb people, they have a lot at stake.
Even the facts, can be misleading,
what can I do to stop the bleeding?

Nobody knows that the future will hold,
will we weather the storm, or will we fold?
I want to help, wherever I can,
We need to be united, the earth, and Man.