tax return
A yearly ritual in which individuals confess their earnings and expenses to the state, baring their wallets to faceless bureaucrats. Wandering through a labyrinth of absurdly complex forms and instructions, one chases the mirage called “deductions” while vitality drains away. As the deadline looms, anxiety and guilt intensify, and awaiting the final tax bill feels akin to a criminal awaiting judgment. Despite repeating the same ordeal annually, citizens can’t help but partake in this humble fusion of self-loathing and public service.