Velvet Glove

[Stevenson]

Civilization surrounds – me
I personally, am notably choleric
People, too close, hesitation lacking
Humanity refusing to withdraw
From me

Tempted once was I not
A fleeting glance from possible friends
The edge I would tend - curious
Those days home dust
As now I know
True nature

Of intent, masked by 'selective' honesty
A sweet smile, a velvet glove - backstabbing
The gain of power
An insatiable want
Of Ladies and Gentleman
Politely they play

Clawing at greatness, scavenging knowledge
Such are the skills of the vultures above
Indirect attack, for social supremacy
Such is the want, of the man, the glove

Of the human desire to believe in
A faith, a purpose, a future
I will not yield
To another's
Play

I shan't rely on none for happiness - Thine is the give, the cede


For my hands are lined with velvet