Chains

I say 'a dove'
They hear a vulture
I draw an apple
They see a viper
My mind is a disease
Destroying their culture
My presence, for them,
is the presence of a sniper

Their murderous thoughts
That my presence brought
Despite all that's taught
Are the ones I sought

These chains I say
And step astray

I offer my help
They hear a threat
I give a rose
They see a spear
Already I'm the enemy
When we've just met
A beast so savage that
The women shed tears

Their shared thought
Long ago wrought
Is finally brought
Against what they've always fought

These chains I write
Then hide and pray

I take a step
They run for a haven
I reach out my hand
They shout a prayer
My laughter it seems
Is the scream of a raven
My smile for them
Is the smirk of a slayer

Their unforgiving thought
For so long sought
-I've learned next to naught
-I'll soon be caught

These chains I embrace
And will not sway

I say "I'll go"
They lash with insults
I turn my back
They throw the stone
Their fear and loathing
Has formed a cult
With time their hatred
Has only grown

Their murderous thought
For which they fought
Brought only distraught
And created naught

These chains I break
And walk away