umasking invitaiton

a glare in the mirror, a diamond in the rough;
a glimmer in the dark, fake smiles aren't enough.
an arcade fire with enclosed flames,
a distorted smile with a euphoric frame.
coming-of-age novels and emboldening quotes,
highlighted resolutions in a stranger's anecdote.
a deer in the headlights, it is death man pursues.
the fireflies in your stomach, darling, they get scared too.

delicate knuckles are not meant for punching walls.
parched lips do not indulge alcohol.
acidic raindrops fall from eyes,
integuments should not the crimson compromised.
the tobacco cigar between your fingers,
is no haven for when desolation lingers.
if love is just a game,
what fragile hope it must proclaim.
if it is a mask you wear,
independently, the pain you must bear.
when fear shelters your disguise,
self loathe will leave you bitterly mesmerized.

and if - a monotonous chant in your head -
those incessant slanders, incompetence it will spread.
but be warned, the devil is a whirlpool of lies.
his darkness and despair, bombarding your eyes.
if by chance you want to let go,
allow room for your soul to grow.
let loose and relinquish the potter.
come clean and give it to the Father.

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