"Ecclesiast" by Michael Keller

Though hatred seems too strong a word to say,

These faces--masks--the sterile words I hear

Betray a calm distress. And yet, always,

Such hollow postures spoil all that's sincere.

Those who laugh laugh only to display

Their membership, just as they'd shed a tear.

Though hatred seems too strong a word to say,

I see no good in such a thin veneer.

When lovers steal a kiss, I ask do they

Pretend for each other's sake? It is clear

They do for mine--know they the roles they play,

That hollow gestures spoil all that's sincere?

These children shout and run throughout the day,

Furies avenging with dissonant jeers.

Does hatred seem too strong a word to say,

When little furies chase me with their cheers?

Those venomous brats will destroy all that's dear,

And hatred is not just a word that I say--

And, truthfully, I can protect what's sincere.