Stark Reality

cushioned oblivion

eyes closed to the weeping

hearing drowned in all dreams

reality altered

around us while sleeping

nothing quite as it seems

soothed by the angels

feted in slumber

purified innocent eyes

awaken to terrors, a

heaven more humbler

sleep the purveyor of lies

casting its light

in shadows of darkness

illusory nature of sleep

vile veracity

illumined day’s starkness

now hear those who must weep