What Lies Within

 
what is in a man
that makes him so crude?
underfulfilled expectations
on the edge that he was bruised
an accumulation of loss
for no one lent him a hand
seeking merely relief
a place to rest his head
contentment appears in place
but what does he value more?
is it worth it to him
to open a new door?

I ask, what is in a woman
that makes her so bitter?
shadows of neglect
that squirm and make her wither
antiquities linger as she dwells
inhibitions like a mask, a prison cell
herself the only hindrance to her sincerity
an easy diagnoses, she too seeks relief
victimized or justified
will courage overcome fear?
be she buried under the rubble
will she still persevere?

what is there to love
when the curtains close on this stage?
is it just another phase?
the same orchestra we heard last week?
what progress is there made?
what lies are unveiled within our love
that may bring strength to later days?