Days we’re taught
synthetic warmth
to demonstrate
with pinks and ribbons
of nauseous tradition
and only love.

With simple smiles
that sweep aside
the raw, the real
the breathing close
to hurt and feel
That hate and love.

These days ignore
the push and pull
of strident self
or bonds that hold,
in sticky silence
Love and hate.

Ignore the bruised
and shine bright lights
on brilliant blooms
To juxtapose the fight

Symbiosis suffocates
In hate and love,
in love and hate.

Photo, Alex Critch, Creative Commons.