Behind the Mask

Hypocrisy exists on many planes.
Behind the mask, manipulation reigns,
disguising bad behavior with pretense
of feigned distress without due consequence.

Adroitly dodging that unwanted task,
manipulation reigns behind the mask
concealing sanctimonious disdain
for any realistic truth campaign.

Intimidating bluster stifles gains.
Behind the mask, manipulation reigns.
It's always someone else who is to blame
whenever dire events appear to shame.

Imbibing from conceit's infernal flask,
manipulation reigns behind the mask.
Revealing steps to thwart this vile chicane
must soon be brought to bear upon the stain.

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The Cloned-Line Poem is a new form invented by Larry Powers, (Lawrence ), aka kansaspoet. A definition of the form and another example can be found in his book on Researching Poetry: "The Cloned-Line Form"