Just For Show
by Michael Doyle

Can you see me
When I be me?
Can you think and feel?
How do I know what's real?

Can you see me?
Can your love free me?
I need to know
If it's more than just for show

Here on this page
I'm free from my cage
No longer on stage
Feeling peace, not rage

Released from the feelings
Too often compelling
I surrender what I want to say
Dabbling in this child's play

Like Plato from his cave
I only wish to somehow save
But I can't even save me
Isn't that a true pity?

I trace your name in the shadows
It's funny how it is that life goes
Like a moth attracted to the flame
It's death's cage all the same

Foolishness dressed as if wise
Seeking a greater life leads to my demise
I thought we might share what's true
But I couldn't even love you

Not the way that true love does
Because that's a feeling that never was
Only me wanting and unteachable
Searching for what was unreachable

Can you see me
When I be me?
Can you think and feel?
How do I know what's real?

Can you see me?
Can your love free me?
I need to know
If it's more than just for show

(c) September 2, 2023  Michael Doyle
All Rights Reserved