Selves fragmented
ravaged
frayed
disarrayed
betrayed
misled
tainted
stung
by experiences
that tore the heart
and mind apart
leaving behind images
of pain
chaos
loss
bewilderment
to be borne
by memory
as life shrivels up
and turns at last
into forgotten dust-

very much
the summary lot
of too many
enslaved by time
and victimised
by circumstance--

where's salvation
amidst this gloom?
would hope
have any room
for resurrection?

into the darkest depth
of night-- the stars they weep
the moon sings a dirge
and there's no promise of sleep-

love grows old
and weary
songs of old
lose their melody-

the face of destiny
looks away
without a single pinch
of pity.