Virtual

January 2003

by oosh

Two frightened children naked here we see
Disgraced but by the world's conformity
And if in nakedness dishonour be
False judgment makes a whore of modesty.
If reassuring touch should chance to warm
The hearts of children frightened by the storm,
Then those who in their ignorance conform
At once condemn departure from the norm.
The fine upstanding husband gives no quarter
To those who cannot bear unfeeling's halter
And in his condemnation does not falter —
Before he creeps upstairs to rape his daughter.
Yet naked are we all before the hate
Of those who know no love, but execrate
The love of beauty, which they weakness rate
(Unless confined to what they designate).
What good is done when "death to evil" willed?
Or fine cathedral condemnation build?
Self-righteous hearts too soon with spite are filled,
And shame upon the innocent is spilled.
Ignore those members of the human race
Who, stifling joy, leave nothing in its place.
Tenderness is all that is not base —
And love the only strength, the fount of grace.