The machines lined the labyrinth in rows
Lights, colors and animations all posed
In endless arrays of enticing sounds
Like children on turning merry-go-rounds

Some people can barely walk or breathe
Still coming in and taking seats beneath
The neon altars of chance, money and vice
All gathered together like a nest of mice

The draw of the elusions and a sum to win
Keeping the people in a polarized spin
Roundabouts in sheer tidal waves of hope
Not aware they are on a slippery slope

Participating for points to keep a status
In the all encompassing apparatus
Designed to become your new home
From its shadows you will not roam

Perceived as a beacon of true light
Serving the lonely slaves by night
Souls the darkest demons possess
Each slap of the buttons causing stress

Endless sounds of screams and elations
Winning money to calm the agitations
Still they file in like going to church
On a never-ending quest and search

Looking for the missing links in their life
Placating the unbearable internal strife
Never looking up, never seeing the above
Their misery resides in a lack of true love


© Jade Anjoun