as the ignorant file in
i'm saddened by their state.
i too was once dressed
in snug half-baked ideas.

ill fitting but comfortable,
then i was stripped naked.
only my ideas were left,
none to be stolen.

in shock, i looked ahead
and saw the gate closing.
hurrying, i hoped to sup
with those already cloistered.

through gaping teeth come hisses
of disparaging recognition
while they pass the ladle
beyond my lip, i thirst, i hunger.

10/12/2005