They said the world tasted bitter,
But I didn't know the taste
Sitting on my high pedestal
I hadn't found my place.

They said life was pain,
But I jumped right on the train
The box was cold, damp
Dark heat, a burning lamp
Of judgment.

I caught it,
This sweat-soaked fever
A penny for a heartless demeanor
It came back, the conflict within
Shivers down my skin.

Why- that gifted nymph,
It lurks in nails, toes, grins
A flashlight on throats
The world was grim.

They said life was pain,
But I didn't know the feel
My reflected thought
Held back, bitten at the heel.

Wasn't I seeing gumdrops and candy ladders
Pie contests and glowing lanterns
Cherry soda and harmless banters
Butterfly wings and hula dancers?

They said life is pain,
But to seek fun and games
Look at oneself first
Here lies change.

Here lies paradise.