*****
something pernicious
that has lasted

when we talk
when we listen
when we laugh
    and cry
when we forget it all
     and repeat

when we stop reading
we write only when
          something wrong occurs

when we write
we start reading when
          something mirthful occurs

we compliment the dead
     and the suicidal
     --the suicidees

we are something, public
that has lasted
     this long

when we steal
and not even replace it
     with a helpful, joyful smile
          of appreciation

when we yell
and the children cry
because their pain is only emotional
     because they need to feel a harsh
          beating

when we lie
because it's just a bit more
     simpler
          than explaining the entire story

when we pawn off
    the pawns

and when
     the cats refuse to get close enough
to be pet

the public
is something

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