Ode to The Willingly Deaf

Dare you criticize?

Dare you pretend you understand the millionth part of what I was saying?

Dare you assume that you have me figured out in the least?

Hmph. Let's see then:

See that curl in the side of your mouth

that gnarling contempt.

Or eyebrows that rise in surprise, you resent

my few words, with your muffled, thin shout.

Fear not, I'm not offended.

Oh, not that you'd really care.

Would you rather I couldn't bear

the shame, and I choose to end it?

No.

Long as I live I won't shut my mouth for the benefit of one who doesn't care to hear

Long as I live you won't see my back arched, apologetic

Long as I live I won't take back a thing I've said

What fool would take back the truth?

You hadn't asked, but if you had

I'd have told you.

Cover your ears if you so desire

but my mouth stays open

till my tongue, self-made, tire.