Hegemony

Hegemony

 

(A play with Hegemon, outspoken leading man;

the innocent Subordo, from a world apart;

and simple Publico, of short attention span;

and Opulo, the merchant.) Let us start.



Says Hegemon: "It's vital that we intercede

to help you govern." Says Subordo in reply:

"This serves us well. In compensation we'll concede

our country's wealth." But as its fortunes go awry,



Subordo nominates a leader for reform.

Says Hegemon: "His record of debauchery

and greed will devastate your land. You must transform

your nation to a market-based democracy!"



The people balk, thus Hegemon's soliloquy:

"Such insolence demands that we suspend

all trade." Subordo, cast aside in misery,

appeals to Hegemon, who promises to send



a righteous leader to restore the fragile peace.

Says Publico: "You're welcome to our bank accounts!"

Says Opulo: "Our arms production must increase!"

As Hegemon prepares a gala to announce



the victory, Subordo cries, "Our homes are lost,

our land destroyed!" Says Hegemon, "We must denounce

the enemy, and then rebuild at any cost!"

Says Publico: "You're welcome to our bank accounts!"



Says Opulo: "Rebuilding? Let me calculate."

And Hegemon declares in mighty voice: "We state

the Truth -- throughout the world our message resonates!"

(Then silence, as production terminates.)