illusions and elusions

with silver-lined deceits

subtle hopes are foiled – wrapped

secret desires trapped

wave then duck and dodge

smile and weave the mazes

glance but do not gaze

forgoing feelings do not think

reactions in armor polished

chrome-shielded souls vanished

wave then duck and dodge

smile and leave the mazes

no heart for one last gaze

fading in time spectral shadows

leave empty wonders behind

clattering remnants in the mind