We value the mask
the polite turn
of face and phrase
that hides
venom and hypocrisy
we cherish the pretty package
while substance ceases to matter

We are the alchemists:
turning everything
to base metal
overlooking gold
in favor of what is easy

Raising a civilization
doomed to sink below
sands
joining the Xanadu
that no longer exists

Teaching children
to be liars
at the altar
of appearances ~ Caroline A. Slee