BRITTLE, BITTER, BRUTAL

Brittle with our disappointments
Fragile we've become
Fearing we could break and crumble
Crushed beneath this darkness

How fast things change 
From praise to blame
From hope to hate
Peace has lost its sway

I can't remember
So strong a distemper
Far-reaching affliction
One must not disagree

Bitter from our persecutions 
Outraged we've become
Overshadowed by our loathing
Love has lost its power

Brutal with our accusations
Ruthless we've become
To the ones we disagree with
Deference escapes us

How fast things changed
No praise, all blame
No hope, we hate
Thought police now reign

I won't be subject 
To this social illness
Far-reaching affliction
I ache to remain free

--July 2020, Ash Hall