I took a fair share in the fight
In hope my heart would grasp
The truthful essence of what's right
And wrongful thoughts would pass.
But I forgot my sleeve was drawn
by what leads minds astray,
And once my logic's flesh was gone
the will became soft clay.

Once stamped or thumbed
It changed its lead
From aliveness to still pride
Heart said, what man would ever read
a thought that won't subside?
For hardship and despair build strength
And beauty one can't rebuild.
The holiness in life is death
And preachers are the ill.

I grieve my being in this place
Of ornamental gladness.
My dying heart was all my health,
My genius was madness.
But once I raised my sword and roared
The progress had begun.
No triumph will be in this war,
My healing never done.
Things that were said to be right
Are ones I said I'd follow,
And so external joys grow bright
And "I" becomes more hollow.