pantomines

we're slaves to a dark crushing reality
bound to the depths and never truly free
by the giant ravenous we are swallowed whole
performing sacrifices, playing each our role

but we're also enthralled in a beautiful trance
enchanted and haunted by your wordless dance
and one day to slay them we shall defy the odds
good riddance, you whisper, to our deranged gods

now there's cracks in the surface, only vaguely outlined
our innate radiance for far too long outshined
feel beneath the pressure of a million tons
a glimpse of the fury of a thousand suns

but still in denial of that ancient power
unbroken the chains, even in darkest hour
salvation stolen and forever in silence
we sink alone into that voiceless defiance

and what do you behold beyond the unseen wall
why keep up the act, when is the curtain call
already gave us your all, even your very soul
you never, never, never merely played a role

(2024)

---