graphic by Stephen Alsford
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Each time we put our hostile plumage on display, Instead of acting out our anger through charades We choose a dumb show where we both exchange dark looks And let the pressure cook. We're sparring partners in a shadow-boxing match, Two mimes who pose and keep their voices under latch, Our choreography a secret pantomime Until it's knockout time. Incommunicado Is my heart's Valhalla, As I vote with my feet, Beat strategic retreat, An escaped desperado. The better part of valour? (Some may call it bravado) But what at first seems discretion Is just lack of expression: Incommunicado. Why can't we talk out problems 'til we have them licked? Instead our body language messages are mixed. You pout, I sulk, there seems to be no common ground To break the silence down. We both are prisoners to an overwheening pride, Secluding feelings to be roped and staked inside Like wild beasts, caged until the combat hour arrives. Such solitary lives. Incommunicado Is my heart's Valhalla, As I vote with my feet, Beat strategic retreat, An escaped desperado. The better part of valour? (Some may call it bravado) But what at first seems discretion Is just lack of expression: Incommunicado. A Battle Royale has been signalled ... challenge met! We're not the types either to forgive or to forget, And to our two retiring corners we withdraw, There to brood once more, Incommunicado. That's my heart's Valhalla, As I vote with my feet, Beat strategic retreat, An escaped desperado. The better part of valour? (Some may call it bravado) But what at first seems discretion Is just lack of expression: Incommunicado. We're both aficianados Of that silent Eldorado: Incommunicado! |
| (2010) |
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graphic by Stephen Alsford |
| Created: November 17, 2014. | © Stephen Alsford |