I tell it how it is
smug fatheads claim, thinking
it’s always a plus
to dish out, unblinking
truths which will wound
even close friends for years
although for the moment,
they hold back their tears –
I find it both kinder
and wiser, to say
lies which pretend
every sucker’s OK –
what’s the point, after all
in words which will only
leave people hurt
and angry, and lonely? –
so I smile and I laugh
and I nod and agree
and I wish those I fool
would do likewise with me . . .