It's the same malaise
    the lack of meaning
    the doubt, restlessness
    discontent-- morning

    begins to darken
    noon is a drag
    wrapped in weariness and sighs
     evening hours crack

     in despair--the crying
    for release-- a living death
    the heart is in bleeding
    there's struggle in every breath

    this is the malaise perennial
    a solemn and foreboding heritage
    youth grows old long before its time
    living is akin to being in an animal-cage.