Jack Haven

"Gratitude"

Hide your face; stay far away.
What miserable butterfly flew in your throat.
It's easier to hate you this way.

So few the years since I went astray.
Life seemed so simple when my face you smote—
Hide your face; stay far away.

I cry out aloud my mournful inveigh.
Where are my manners: would you like to gloat?
It's easier to hate you this way.

I'm dying inside, I hear mothers say.
If only, you urge, I'd let you dote.
Hide your face; stay far away.

I see your tears; I've seen you pray
that I stall my trek to locales more remote.
It's easier to hate you this way.

If only you'd hear what I've tried to relay:
I'll no longer be your idolized shoat.
Hide your face; stay far away.
Maybe I'll forgive you someday.