If the future was more kind
without misfortune few deny
perhaps the fear would be removed
from procreation of blessed broods

the call to family some resist
is the outcome of that persists
when grandparents have condemned
the world resulting from their sins

inheritance should be boon
instead the cliff clearly looms
the edge within sight of all
only dooms the tender ones

the elders who will fall away
are the ones that had betrayed
now future parents hesitate
to set a sentence of doomed fate.

© 2020. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20200226.

The pebble falls into the pool
from how far up I'll not guess
the height will tell cause impact
not known before stone is tossed
the land may drown in the wave
submerged by the resulting crest
or ripples will disturb the peace
hidden by a calm breeze.

A balloon flies to the waiting sky
another message sent to soar
asking those far below
to gaze above at the sight
what may happen will depend
on who stands looking up
it could be a swarming throng
or silence of deserted field.

Against these fickle turns of fate
the author seeks a surer thing
and artist bends media to mind
before presenting to the world
artifacts made by hand
God's expression none can deny
if there were a few kind souls
to witness dawn of Genesis.

These pleading cries are self-exclaimed
wanting ears to hear the noise
imploring eyes to turn their way
with guarantees worth no more than dust
blood and tears poured to create
asking others to behold
toil embraced to create
hoping some will witness this.

Recognition is the food
for the soul seeking more
than isolation in its art
emotion's void without love
when the pebble seeks the pool
and a balloon flies above
asking all to honor these
the artist's bid to live beyond.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170913.

“I’m not like the other ones”
says the wounded soul out loud
running from the enemy
throwing bodies in the way

respect is stolen from the whole
in a vain attempt to rise above
the wounding words all around
with no escape, high or low

the phrase is found at sword’s edge
escape is sought from the rage
criticism that makes no sense
yet all are held as nature’s goal

these are words ****** to shield
when a world seeks to judge
what’s been done is in defense
from a place where there’s no win

respect is the crux, the goal sought
sadly we attack ourselves
when it’s not given by the ones
who set the rules that contradict

it is true that we diverge
I’d like say that this is the norm
respect is found in our own space
so let’s reclaim the words’ power.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170722.

Sometimes I welcome her
the mistress to my forward face
only seeking for her time
beyond the grasp of masculine

that existence few suspected
even as the lady sought
to find a path to the light
drop the curtain to floor

behold the doxy of my heart
courtesan I’d like to share
if my clan could accept
what they believe is profane

the normative will have its say
exclaiming loudly in their dismay
denying unity in myself
when I dare equivalence

bless the souls who understand
forgive the woman at my side
all too real for many years
greatest secret hid from myself

totality is found mixed gender
sharing space in my cosmos
femininity found and then loved
stepping forward to welcome her.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180809.

They walked a path alone
resembling the norm by only half
with the society as a single part
the remainder was their own

reality twisted to match their whims
the ether bent by force of will
turned to match the innerscape
of a soul that wished to fly

convention was coincidence
on the journey above the rest
embraced if only to assure
life and liberty continued on

to merely thrive was not enough
when the trickster conjoined the fox
each contributing to rebellion's game
moving beyond the nine to five

religion became the trinket held
as the faith of other folk
imbued with magic still not felt
by the one that defined themselves

identity moved to the spread
a spectrum between two points
the poles rejected as the place
the hat was hung for attraction's gaze

what they liked and how they stood
identity of who they were
came on terms self-defined
with the acronym begun with L

this rebellion came at a cost
supporting structures were recast
to the family beyond mere blood
embraced many to support the one

now I follow with rapt intent
observing what I may glimpse
of the soul that walked alone
bending life to match their heart.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180521.

Pardon me if I use a sign
meant to find all my peeps
the ones aligned to my life
by the words I’ll confess
marked by phrases out of place
so it seems when compared
to the chatter most parley
one to another, babble’s frame.

Some will question what I mean
confusion reigning when they read
the meaning lost to their ears
the turn of phrases too foreign
because their lives are lived elsewhere
no harm is meant, this is their fate
while I exist, exemption’s child
looking for other ones.

Others have little care
for this one struggling forth
whatever said matters not
I’m too alien for that lot
they may know what I mean
yet I’m put out of their minds
not wanting to know anymore
mutterings lost in the storm.

Instead I speak to my kind
to let them know they’re not alone
providing signs they’ll discern
invitation to comfort’s arms
though the world may complain
I’ll hold them close as a friend
signs submitted to the world
finding those who need them most.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170603.

The mark of hate is the lack
of shared reference to mankind
when derision becomes the norm
in place of the civil tongue

ridicule is the mode
when a voice detests the world
despising what’s not understood
seeking safety behind disdain

erecting walls in response
to the strangers asking due
they’re discounted all the same
as the chattel below the feet

communication flows one way
none can hear when beasts plea
demanding balance in the scheme
denied with slurs are hurled their way

derision spun as calm discourse
or humor from the acid tongue
each rebukes the common ground
permission given to cold scorn

stripped of kinship from the whole
ensured by use of only words
designated for the worms
without the souls of mortal ilk.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180602.

There is a crowd for everyone
against the teeth of cold shoulders
even when the days seem dark
with no warmth to sooth the soul

friendly faces that do not judge
instead they welcome the lost one
too long wandering in the wastes
with lack of friendship along the way

a place to put down your woes
the world is gladly put aside
a daily grind with no end
is paused with those who lift their kin

strife’s not gone with this reprieve
still the space is most blessed
asking little and giving much
warmth for the soul found at last

smiles and tears are ensured
as close comrades lift the load
in requiem we do the same
ease their burdens in kind return

a calm is centered beyond the storm
acquaintances shield the worst that’s felt
push aside teeth of the dark
when there’s a crowd for everyone.

They allowed that I was flawed
then still showed affection’s grace
a kiss to cheek before more
the same to lips as my heart soared

in that dream a joy was found
something more than lustful thoughts
stirrings felt above the belt
hope returned at last to mind

bless connection beyond myself
appreciation behind the veil
evoking hope when I awoke
that life was more than waking angst

dispelling sadness with a thought
as sleeping visions are more real
than depression too long lived
imagined sorrow at last dismissed

I’d forgotten the pure delight
rapture found near at hand
when separation was put aside
that short time in shade’s domain

humanity favored by a haunt
it was myself by theory’s rule
a kiss to cheek before more
sanity retrieved when I awoke.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180707.

I wish I could sketch the beauty seen
or take a picture that would preserve
the scope of all I've witnessed here

my life is experienced in splendor's realm
in my mind I am the unworthy visitor
an intruder walking halls I should leave

the presence of form and nature is too much
for this child with fragile feet of clay
with tools that fail to portray the grace

so here I am in my journaled quest
to express what cannot be told
the indescribable that I adore

I will capture what I'm allowed
by turn of phrase or photo frame
to show the world how it's blessed.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170622.

When I Speak

When I speak I seek to share
the struggles felt within this one
reflection of the group embraced
please listen to my social group
though you may yet disagree
with statements put to your ears.

This isn't who I thought I’d be
moments of anxiety
when I was young in yesteryear
now a snowflake they abuse
or so it’s thought by contrast
by the masses that embracing fear.

Watch me shoot a telling flare
put it up into the sky
to find the members of my tribe
I'll share what bring me joy
as strange as they seem to be
outside of the accepted norms.

Exclamation of who I am
is not meant to arouse the lust
a fetish for the larger crowd
to each there own is my plea
predilections some may pursue
put to ears I hope will hear.

As a mix of all of these
just myself, and so much more
I’m not the villain some will see
please try to see my position
my disagreement does not destroy
the free speech of the whole.

The quick glance is sent my way
one of many across the days
then repetition weaves a tale
of something more in the wind
fleeting hints recognized
sideways look sent to me
one of many in each day
blurred in passing, almost unseen

there are millions that interact
perhaps thousands, it matters not
when the few broach the walls
that surround my frail ego
I have to wonder about intent
cynicism is the foe
whispering doubt into the ear
warning off what could be good

friendships blossom from the void
all those cues that life presents
if only I could sift the gold
from the chaff of the storm
the die is cast against the odds
two people looking across the gulf
wondering if there is truth
connection made in fleeting hints.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180211.

Allow me to hum a tune
while we dance to music’s lead
sent by the muse with no strings
except to join as a chorus
song embarked on our romp
close enough to be heard

while the room is ignorant
of our blessing from our voice
two blessed souls lost to time
floating in our confidence
bubble found where we can soar
transcending sound vocalized

when small talk is not enough
we’ve crossed that bridge long ago
conversation turned to song
elevation of dialogue
synchronized the best we can
without training or practice spent

engaging with a pure intent
inspired by minstrel’s steady beat
accompaniment to joy’s wry glee
jester found inside of each
not a crooner in earnest
instead bliss celebrates

while we the key may be off
or the words be muttered forth
the intent is to embrace
celebration of jubilee.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180517.

They asked me if I had a type
predicate for desire’s aim
that filter through which life strains
beauty in its purest vein

I responded that mirrors lie
while sight assures who I should be
reflections through imagery
assuring more than I enfold

evidence fits the puzzle’s face
repetition by each day
once again conviction states
it’s not madness to believe

in the end I may love myself
through surrogates of loveliness
statements of the sincere views
who I’d be if I were true.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180204.

Of all the perks in life I love
I'll admit there's one I hold
above all else that may impress
it's the style of that exceeds
signature of a sparkling soul
manifest to show the world.

Of course the surface is quite nice
a smile and curves that combine
radiant by measure I'll attest
yet this pales by what's beyond
blend by hand of artisan
with credit due to the same.

Calling forth from pop culture
amalgamation of history
what's been old is made new
stirred together to express
what's come before is the truth
for personality now imbued.

Now I'll state what must be said
with little wind I still have left
after they’ve robbed my breath
beauty blessed by style's intent
attention turns to those who walk
on the paths they make their own.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20171101.

Decades offer so much more
future stretching beyond this point
than the upbringing you've endured

against this background you’ll excel
with schooling planned for artist’s path
by music’s pitch and joy of dance

on the canvas you’ll seek yourself
inspired within to rise above
conviction held close to the heart

piety is your chosen path
his fold is blessed with your faith
the high road will be your walk

these paired visions are my muse
examples put to this old fool
my protege as life’s new bloom

my colored leaves hang in the air
seeing promise in your young life
inspiring me to live and to fight.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170728.

I found Cupid by the road
prisoner in the stock's firm clamps
in the face of public scorn
this imp of love confined by man
his wings no longer grasped the air
rainbow hues were dimmed by dust
what could have brought him so down low
caged for sins that humans judge.

A messenger is all he was
the agent sent to move two hearts
when the wheels had clicked in place
launch his arrow and make it so
god of love is high praise
though the low is his goal
desire to turn the questing eye
delivered on his missile's tip.

These restraints held him there
until the judge could take the case
some future date the crowd would come
now he and I stood alone
he admitted to no crime
attraction will cross the lines
set by society as a whole
blind only to what it knows.

This envoy known as Eros
is charged with obscenity
when that provoked is all the same
as the norms found in his aim
the hearts still link when he's caged
wounding selves in by love's embrace
though man's officials would argue
fantasies against romance's ways.

Fear not my friends of queer desire
Mars and Venus will have their way
their offspring will throw off his chains
the fire of passion will find its mark
no human banister can decide
pass a judgment that would abide
preventing Cupid from his job.

In waking life I have a dream
of three slugs put to skull
this is a fantasy I'll admit
because only one would do the trick

in my dreams I find escape
calm is found with visitors
transients blurred by shifting scenes
seeming normal in nightly realms

then I wake from torpid bliss
find myself within the chains
ternary dreads await the soul
that drifts among the lucky ones

the sleeping hours ignore this theme
the trilogies are heavenly
with no taint of deepest angst
asking balm by three times fired.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170731.

Look to the gender no longer compliant
that past pawn to the powers is now defiant
when the demure halos are put aside
switched for the headdress of power’s might

shared with those yearning strength
Pan and Cernunnos share vigor
Mother fixing the future path
conveyed to her daughters divinely blessed

vitality evoked on base desires
no longer the venue of masculine
look to the spiraling of maiden forms
holding sun to the moon’s pure wants

on longer suborned to kowtow
fertility seeks those who know
on pointed conveyance the yoke is tossed
tapping lighting from the sky

consider when halos are put aside
held in reserve while power is grasped
channeled by tips on top of head
horns exchanged for circlet of light

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180906.

Falling in love became routine
another day spent in want betrayed
by the nature of the response
to adoration so cruelly trounced

defeated by something close
to addiction if truth be told
that need to feel so much more
than affection of the slow burn

instead the flames consume the source
while hardly scorching the other ones
those targets of passion’s siren call
unable to hear the desire’s resolve

the apt response is to deny the urge
falling in love at last purged
habits die hard when they’re set
this one discarded with sad regret.

© 2020. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20200209.

What if I were Hannah, now departed
gone to a place you shall not reach
she led the way to realms beyond
lay down the body followed by soul
turning both to face the Lord
one can hope, as prayers pour forth

where could we have talked when I lived
before the time of consequence
the stage was set so many times
with curtains drawn before the lights
though now they've closed after the cues
were ignored as darkness fell

who should have made the first move
before the gap was too large
once we were at fingertips
an easy length to make a move
now a universe is in between
the here to there, a hole’s span

why would you wait, tempt the fates
if words were there to be said
you must have seen them sparkle in my eyes
waiting for an invite from your own
now the screams do no good
volume muted when the thread is cut

when will the time come around
to repeat what should have been
ask the man dressed all in black
he'll tell you of better realms
where peace is felt beyond the pain
while speaking of the other side

how did this happen, only words remain
testimony on this side of the grave
I loved you Hannah most of all
we both stand mute in this place
knowing others face the same
on their side of the veil.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170510.

First proclaimed in the year
Madonna reached half century
another day to celebrate
what’s made evident to be blessed
26th of April’s breadth
visibility on the breeze
what was covert is now made plain
a healthy wind that still blows

It’s the day to be seen
out of closets into day
for the fair that love the same
walking tall without shame
by the singles or the pairs
it’s still pure no matter what
beauty found and then proclaimed
fealty to life’s desire.

Relationships bloom from love’s loam
too long buried in plain sight
what was hid is now
bearing fruit for future’s gain
what’s once kindled none should forsake
no longer should the door be closed
celebrating the joy of self
shared with others in love’s embrace.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180426.

Where chains of rules are applied
to the limbs of the enslaved
suffering becomes a normative
thought to be superlative

desired above all other joys
the best is based on woe
darkness affirmed as light
the gloom becomes delight

this illusion cast by saints
look to the imps that relate
their glee is proof enough
that few dare call the bluff

rattle the manacles to proclaim
none should live as a slave
bound to rules not their own
tradition tossed of as a yoke.

© 2020. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20200224.

Marrionettes come to the dance
pulled by strings high above
directing actions, fate foretold

pre-recorded, the music plays
always it will sound the same
tied to ******* instead of bliss

darkness hides those who tug
threads on hearts, cords to mind
while puppets jump far below

an illusion is set on stage
cast by lights that command
attention paid to masters’ call

still belief maintains a hope
surety as last resort
if only this were the truth

no longer are the dolls detached
from expectations separate
as independence cavorts in chains.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20171126.

Listen my friends that have been bit
or merely scratched by suspect ones
vectored beasts that may carry
hydrophobia of dire consequence
the furry friends are a threat
the pain of rabies is too real
address it now or be doomed
it's not a joke cause then you'll die

the lagomorphs are immune
these are the hares and small rodents
you're not of this ilk so contend
with the shots that medicate
immunoglobulin will be first
then four doses of vaccine's *****
across two weeks the pain will press
around the wound or in deep muscle

if this path is not followed
as the sickness takes its toil
the last chance to fight the scourge
named after the town of beer
a quick coma then lots of drugs
it's not effective and dangerous
not recommended by authorities
don't put yourself in this place

so please bend to doctor's care
get your shots in quick recourse
the alternative is quite bad
paralysis and mortality
you're my friends I'd like to keep
alive and walking straight upright
get your shots even if you feel
like you'll die as you heal.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180412.

How I love my kitten heels
the squat kin of towering tilt
I'll embrace the feline cleats
brought to earth for mortal feet

once thought old-fashion by the kids
now cool enough for a night out
or daytime fun instead of sneaks
snazzy fashion around the clock

60’s flashback with options
of pumps or slingbacks I could wear
perhaps the heel could be exposed
skin revealed with bit of height

a Tiffany breakfast still inspires
steal a million with this meow
Hepburn is my fashion idol
presenting chic that's come around

the playbook has all the styles
colors, fabrics, and the bows
paired with dress or roughed-up jeans
the more casual is best of all

not the wedge, I'll pass on that
stiletto rear is the preference
kitten heels are now my style
embracing comfort above the ground.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180209.

I apologize to the world
for imperfections they endure
while I struggle to commit
to the covenants in which I’m snared

righteousness flows so easily
assurity of what should be
demands put the lesser folk
this servant jumps when provoked

to find favor with masters' wish
remedies must be put in place
no room to deviate
from requests a world dictates

failure is the final way
invertible by fate's mandate
leaving me with little fare
to support my flawed discourse

the positive is an accident
recognition is the mistake
aberrations that I dismiss
just wait until I fall again

then there are the skeletons
rows in closets I keep barred
from the eyes that would denote
failings not overlooked

there is one fix that will resolve
the chain of errors I evoke
while it's the greatest of them all
at least it bring this to an end

this is my hope before I go
the parting gift of a pained soul
a last apology for all mankind
'I'm sorry' done one more time.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20171115.

Twenty-nine years ago
a senior in my college days
the truth came to me in the night

there I dreamt I was allured
to an object that most demurred
as I approached to longingly gaze

the start of yearning filled my head
awareness kin to creeping dread
what did this mean for a young soul?

revelation had tapped my arm
said look here son, don't be alarmed
there's no harm if that’s what you want

it was a dream so none did see
what filled my vision behind the veil
yet in my heart thought was conceived

alternatives were thus revealed
I’m awake I’ll have you know
from the dreams my path was set

now I'm true to my self
decades turned on the wheel
still I honor sleep's message.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170520.

I imagined the perfect poem
rich with rhyming in the verse
stating contents of my heart
torn from flesh to paper’s face
the words would dance on the tongue
reciting wisdom of the muse
this fount I’ll not claim as my own
flowing freely from the pen

this is the dream I chase each day
seeking heights of excellence
with the tools from the bard
implemented with sad regard
practice makes for more good
tumbled right on top of self
witness how much I struggle
mambo dogface to the banana patch

words with meaning escape my grasp
as I quote the great Steve Martin
he was a god among the mortals
describing smoking of the ***
my poor attempts to pin words down
demand attempts to try once more
on each day the sun will rise
again I’ll scribble utterance

in this space I’ll express
the full spectrum of who I am
with no fear of who may see
the good or bad with ugliness
because a life has its quirks
waiting for the poetic twist
conjuration of highest order
a perfect poem found at last.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180408.

Balanced on a razor's edge
between the light and the pit
withing I could move beyond
utility turned against itself
vision cold to probing touch
exacting truth I'll regret

a duplicate was the intent
manifest by craftsman's hand
when silver pressed on the glass
echoes pure in their frame
if only this were the case
instead I see hell’s domain

if I smash the wicked plane
put to dust the foul face
I’ll disappoint at the outcome
verity begs from mirror’s flush
duplicates are the result
echoes of the parent space

perhaps the shards may be used
jagged turned to be embraced
showing red of inner self
where to stand and where to fall
balanced on the razor’s edge
exacting truth I’ll regret.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20171117.

I said I’d like to visit there
though I had a quiet fear
as different as I was at home
I’d be quite plain in the extreme

not to worry, Mary said
be yourself and we’ll be grand
acceptance goes both ways
identities embraced in shared dreams

fantasies no longer in shadows
when a community is engaged
predilections see the light of day
human nature released to play

remember my timid friends
none of this is out of sorts
disconnected from my character
it’s only who I truly am

Mary was the catalyst
another realm gave permit
don’t knock till you try a fling
away from home, no longer plain.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170502.

I’ve decided to avoid the fall
keep my feelings from that edge
lest I tumble, lose my way
again return to the abyss
where my sanity goes away
replaced by folly I’d embrace
focusing where I should not look
while the world wanders on.

A quick diversion would be nice
if only that were a choice
because to drop demands too much
there is no end to those depths
my contracts are all in place
like soldiers in long ranks
wanting nothing to upset
this careful balance to which I’m chained.

Distraction is the best end
sadly this is not the way
when the edge receives its due
with arms that wish far too much
laser focus on just one
that will complete a small life
that’s the mantra, it’s a lie
I’m OK without true love.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20171208.

Beware fair traveler if you may
shadows flitting in the field
though they may seem close at hand
they’ll move away when you draw near

‘come and visit’ they seem to yell
more a whisper in your head
luring dupes to their deaths
leading them to unlocked gate

the paths are safe when well lit
trod by many, here to there
ignoring glimmer flitting orbs
safety found in boredom's realm

the warning signs on the fence
state that all should stay away
a soul is forfeit to pay entry
passage through the unlocked gate

gravity is shared by all
fixing feet to the ground
when the holy is held high
against the faeries of the glade

sadly this is not enough
wanderlust consumes caution
into the arms of fay killers
it’s one-way by unlocked gate.

2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180123.

Identity begs for pain
wearing crimson invites the peril
judgment from the world’s bullies

at the worst they will respond
stoke the fires to purge the world
of the deviants their hearts reject

red consumes the blackness seen
darkness weighed and then condemned
before the heat claims its prey

belief is pressed to save the world
removal of infernal foes
so the greater is made more safe

if only this would truly change
the masses erred in their rush
consumption made for the naught

now the embers are all that's left
the tears could not extinguish flames
imposed on those with scarlet’s stain.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20171107.

Lessons come at their own pace
some have more, some have less
the most challenged have no fault
for the burdens that pile upon
one on the other, encumbrance
doled to see who will break
as the targets look for cause
wondering why the hammer drops.

Severity is the divine joke
just grin and bear under the load
God has deemed to dole it out
or did the Devil assume control?
a story tells sanction asked
the one who lies was set to task
another reason is brought to mind
humanity is the foe found.

Mistakes are made against this veil
karma has the bill in hand
with an outcome few desire
pain amplified as consequence
the reaper comes as last resort
though too often as disease
by slow neglect or same intake
both are life’s antagonist.

When the heavens and the hells
pile on the back the burden’s toil
avoid the paths that fate a price
embrace the lessons you must take
self-awareness is hard earned
surviving falls to climb back
all’s not lost in agony
the sun will rise with dawn’s start.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170801.

At the end I see it all
and take pen to paper to clarify
what God's revealed to my eyes
perhaps this should not be
the muse evoking blasphemy
though closings bring such memories

a final push of energy
gifting me to share the word
has occurred as midnight's stroke
the tunnel's light must now wait
delay an exit to better realms
while last strength fills my limbs

clarity is the benefit
presenting views most conceal
when honor meets embarrassment
past is brought to present time
social constructs most dismay
are made plain on this day

I'll use the last of my will
before a rattle fills my throat
and the words are ended here
wishing that the season stretched
beyond the terminal now embraced
allowing for ending's gain.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170712.

The game was rigged from the start
if times spanned are a start
assuring all will be conned
to play along as if lulled
this was the theory of the top
steadfast in their beliefs
now wondering why the calm is broke
as the tremors are perceived

'why rock the boat?' is their reply
to anguished screams from below
begun as whimpers beneath a gag
now fully voiced in aftermath
a thousand injured in the forefront
with a million close behind
each with a tale of their own
tragedy mounted against the crown

still the kings are sanguine
nothing changed at the end
this desire to stand upright
while the structure begins to shake
countless hands grip the beams
wishing only to topple them
bring the tyrants to their knees
for abuses they'll not admit

excuses tossed as a last defense
declarations of false intent
pretending to know innocence
as blood stains guilty hands
vanquished at long last
their victims take the stage
warning others to not ascend
lest this fate recur again

now the game has been renewed
the small hopes are disabused
as new tyrants build their spires
regardless of what has lapsed
perhaps one day these to will fall
if lessons are kept close to heart
nobody is above the law
when castles topple to the ground.

© 2019. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20190518.

I’m reluctant to dance with the one
join in embrace on the floor
cut the rug for the sake of fun
when an urge says ‘stay away’
even while there’s no cause
to avoid the replica

reflection seen in mirror’s face
judged alike by twist of chance
so much more where I am less
the fair arrangement becomes the dread
when comparison states the gap
between the beauty and the lack

example of the greatest fool
thinking fate has latitude
to bend expression on its head
only angst is finally felt
illustrating a jealous streak
pen put to flesh in sad belief

this diagram of what should be
outside the base reality
beauty of the desired frame
now avoided with dancer’s grace
when connection is denied
a cage of flesh is then implied.

© 2019. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20190708.

Perfect honesty could be my end
as the beginning is finally sought
asking to be taken seriously
between revelations none shall believe

the greatest risk is not attack
it’s instead to be sent away
an alien beyond love of expressed
in deserts found where souls die

asking notice by flagrant means
when the stage invites detours
from safe roads lined with chains
when in the distant the rainbows gleam

these fruits are born on sheltered trees
clustered orchards remove the freak
requesting safety when mirrors show
alike few discerning same

pools of assent are what I seek
being wanted for who I am
it’s not that I must love myself
I wish instead that I’m desired

acceptance is the best defense
prompting numbness as I present
glimpses of growths behind the veil
integrity asking for compensate

here is the danger I represent
asking notice by flagrant means
verity flapping from self-owned tongue
abetting the world to bear witness

the void is never completely blank
there are creations by God’s hand
that flow together when honesty reigns
no longer serious but all too real.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180201.

I asked the gods how I could pass
remove myself from life's path
step away at long last
to find a peace beyond the pain
they replied with sage advice
though the tone had my voice
still I looked to their words
seeking knowledge for a cure

"first step away from the rest
become the speck that no one sees
by the lack of showing up
fade away like the fog
the pain you hold is your own
nobody cares in their joy
happiness spreads across the land
hold the anguish deep inside"

"in the second become the heel
disregarded where once you shined
for in that praise the focus holds
like the anchor on the shoals
disappoint with small drops
dissuade the care others have
for your efforts then maligned
eroded by noxious acts"

these somber gods had their say
planning how I could withdraw
their dulcet words found fertile soil
with the promise I so longed
once I'm gone none shall cry
when I'm wiped from memory
or cursed for what I reaped
the sole response is a shake of head

a broken specter of past promise
no longer seen in the light
put out of mind lest I taint
records acclaiming purity
this end result becomes the goal
the strategy now set in place
I'll step away by stealth and stain
to find the peace I desire.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180614.

Feeling comfortable in your skin
having calm with what God gave
is the challenge of mortal folk
aggravated by commerce
when are we swayed by the lies
instead of listening to our chums.

Society sets the highest bars
asking pockets to turn outward
to buy products most don’t need
imploring us to hate what’s seen
love coming from a jar of cream
this is a falsehood advertised.

Turn aside from this farce
it’s not why we’re here to live
celebrate self by due recourse
with the friends who truly love
these are your allies, not the sales
sharing smiles for who you are.

2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170701.

This is to the lovers I regard
with a fondness from the heart
looking back through the years
at the ones that I’ve embraced

single digits are enough
to measure the base frequency
though the count was too low
to truly gain knowledge’s boon

experience notched fades away
dimming as the years proceed
insufficient at the time
now even less without practice

those very few that I touched
exists beyond the corporal ways
memories left now only fade
with only names left to say.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180611.

I dream in bright technicolor
more shades than life contains
forgetting this span of hues
when I rise with morning dew

the details stream in unending flux
shifting between here and there
when that space twists around
alien to the waking world

a cast of strangers is company
without concern of who I am
acceptance found by colleagues
existing only behind the veil

all the while there is creation
songs and sights, music’s throat
echoing from the only source
the muse inside my resting mind

do not tell me what cannot be
that was there, believe me
restrictions are ****** aside
within the realm behind my eyes

no pain is there in that beyond
the ache that meets me when I wake
I am fully blessed to feel again
the balm of youth in hurt’s relief

if only the waking could be the same
as dreams presented when I recline
perhaps it could if I strive
to live my life as if asleep.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170823.

Madness absent presents a void
where only tiredness may prevail
along with ghosts that circumscribe
the issues that still haunt my life

the ideation is put aside
no longer present at all times
a long reprieve from the call
from the darkness of the void

when sanity was found at last
from a source that I’d not expect
the fog of doom is finally pierced
to reveal normality

the journey becomes one of days
small diversions hand-in-hand
with the grind I now embrace
less excitement of death’s hint

now the years stretch ahead
demanding more than past lack
it’s enough to turn back
find a way to mania

here's the joke before you go
if ideation is all one knows
spice provided is then missed
neurosis gone is for the best.

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20181120.

I've waited decades to discern
the reservoir beyond the norm
liquid recess of humanity
home to creatures most deplore
varied ranges of experience
between the surface and deep abyss
these stratums called my soul
away from the province of safe shares

I longed to find my place
beyond the shoals of Xanadu
somewhere to call my home
where the beautiful monsters roam
brethren most would reject
are companions in varied depths
these fantasies beyond the veil
inspiring what I’ve become

more fay than humankind
this is my destiny
I share the discoveries
verifying the path within
for those who follow on
in the medians of the mind
central of east to west
away from secure shores

© 2018. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20180713.

You were just another face in all my days
one more to which I'll have to say goodbye
from the other side of the one-way veil
when my final end is met on the long march

I've seen the young faces that give me hope
when those my age seem to deny the same
bitterness at what's been now lost to them
weighs on my heart while the saplings compensate

with those my age would seem to be my fate
though my world may appear different
angst becomes the companion I can't shake
when self owned loss is a shared malady

I've traveled on these roads far many miles
accumulated the dust heavy on my boots
now I long to lay down my heavy head
bidding your youth goodbye when I pass away.

2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170705.

I’ve sought escape from the norm
in the space of torment’s fire
pressed upon by helper’s hand
bless release I’ll now admit

first the opening is put forth
a door opened into my world
defenses dropped to accept
distress controlled, a focused point

highlight broached to inter
for just a moment in between
the uninvited lesser wounds
supplanted by the purposeful

secondly the grief transcends
affliction wearing beauty’s face
or perhaps the same reverse
splendor following willing trial

partners working towards a goal
with final steps to ensure
sorrow turned to joy’s intent
what I’ll find is what I want

now the bliss at last arrives
woe transformed to fixate
on what lays beyond
escape found in the pain.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20171123.

Some people face it for a year
or a week here and there
bringing life to its knees
then they're back on their feet
sanity returns to the hands
instead of slipping like the fog
hiding that I genuflect
a position I’m doomed to keep.

The power of positive
focusing on life beyond the fog
the life preserver tightly grasped
questing ground beyond the frowns
that’s assuming there is land
not the void inside my mind
mist defying certain gains
against the future I seem to dread.

Here’s the greatest gap I see
that span of years in difference
theirs of decades two or three
mine of half a century
when the darkness walks beside
the sole constant, not quite a friend
instead of the sad transient
I face the cloud more than a year.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170912.

There is a battle I’ll reveal
between two sides that want the same
happiness sought to fulfill
the breadth of life in expanse

there’s a brawl between soldiers
one below and one above
contending for the common ground
exacting ruin with each stroke

weaponized by good intent
the conflict wracks internal space
disrupting breath that I desire
choosing paths beyond the now

each engaged in my employ
taking turns to steer the course
if only they would pull as one
provoking calm instead of strife

drawing blood with each stroke
first the reason, then ardor
I’ll never know which is best
a thousand scratches on my soul

the same master requests both
to make peace instead of war
pull together against a world
that cares little of this contest

between the head and the heart
there’s a battle every day
happiness should be the goal
if the contest was not a duel.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20171017.

I. The Picket Line

I met God on picket lines
he chose a side, it was not mine
still I pressed to have my say
not knowing how the future lay
a tale of woe will be shared
of deity that met my gaze
foreshadowed by his paragons
firm in belief of one true cause

the barricades held back the ranks
with civil guards in between
doing best to keep the peace
neutral bastions of the law
though their mission was noble
they were too few to stem the tide
when the righteous sought to show
the holy ire towards their foes.


II. Holy Warriors

The signs came first with bold exclaims
of justice and equality
if the color, creed, or bent of mind
was the same, not deviant
our sins were stated for all to see
already judged as a disease
the judge had spoken, jury agreed
now the hangman would be met

God put on his human face
the holy warriors with grace imbued
holding high their sacred tools
ready to tame the Devil's spawn
fervent zeal to prove their worth
divinity stamped in snarling shouts
redeemer embraced with baseball bat
they descended upon my lot.


III. The Fall

I had only words as my shield
insufficient against the blows
with dirging background of gospel chants
solid whacks as choir's response
less than a minute passed on that day
as holy justice was dispensed
praise from the angels on most high
another sinner had been dispatched

against his flock I'd drawn my stock
to represent the lesser ones
now I've finally met my God
with my life as entry pass
his true believers had their say
with the edge of sticks and shields
as I bore witness to their acts
Lord help those on picket lines.

© 2017. Sean Green. All Rights Reserved. 20170907.