I was still just a kid
When my innocence was lost
At a show-all airport check-point
Sifting out harm, we'd freedom tossed

Next, next

I was still, frustrated
There were a hundred like me
I followed another body
Another body followed me

Next, next

Faking a grin, uneasy bowel
Churning in my belly
Comes in a rush. Not now!
Eyes turning to tele

Next, next

I feel naked, filled with dread
I'm told to raise my hands
As they watch me gleaming bright
In the beam, showing under-glands

Next, next

Gee, I really would have liked
It very much to end duress
Maybe, I heard, should smile
And cower, perhaps undress

But, next, next

Oh, it was just like magic
My thigh-hidden junk got small
But that touch would be crime
I hated feeling barren ball

Next, next

And since then each queue line
In post office or store
Seems to raise my alarms
To whisper "Just once more"

Next, next

Now I always will recall
The baggage truck, the flying tags
The sere attendant who rapped
With passion as he skewered bags

Next, next

I swear on the good book
In my briefcase. "Ya wanna read, huh?"
It is his ugly voice
That I forever hear

Next, next

That voice that winks at frisking
Of corpses still in bud
Sits still this boist'rous nation
Until their "hick" voices flood

Next, next

And when I am not screaming
In a voice grown dry and hollow
I dream of endless naked lines
Of the following and the followed

Next, next

One day I'll cut my wings off
And spurn high flying, drive
Anything, I'll do anything
To give up airlines and survive

Not ever to be next

Not ever to be next!