“How to Be Productive While Democracy Crumbles,” Poem, Danielle Coffyn.

It’s helpful to have an addiction. Ideally work

or an eating disorder— everyone admires a woman

who is successful or thin. All you need is a list!

Pilates. Botox. Boil chicken breasts & broccoli.

Smile nonstop on Zoom. Talk about your kids

& the lawn— you barely notice the forest fire smog

when the grass is so green! Don’t mention

the antidepressants. Laugh about anxiety.

Avoid the news except to read up on stocks

or business. There will always be suffering.

Why be sad when there’s nothing you can do?

No one ever accused you of being brave

& you aren’t willing to experience the discomfort

of starting now.

Danielle Coffyn (she/her) is a Pushcart Prize-winning writer and educator whose work explores the intersections of nature, identity, and resilience. With a BA in English, Danielle crafts poetry and essays that resonate with honesty and clarity. An ardent hiker and lover of the outdoors, Danielle co-founded Nature & Nurture Hiking and Writing Retreats, creating a sanctuary where women can forge connections and unearth creativity through the transformative interplay of wilderness and words.