nothing has exploded

nothing beyond this matters except pain
the tears mean nothing in and of themselves
it's not the signs or symbols but the strain
the effort as each of us deeply delves
that truly signifies or means a defined thing
the rituals around it all that symbolic load
is worthless as a cheap painted plastic ring
the acts that matter put feet on the road
i'm tired of sciolist scholars seeking to justify
their overweighted salaries by lighting up the sun
i want to say direct to each a plain you lie
and what's it mean if i shoot you when you run
in the dark corners may be hopeful growth
but it won't be seen if the seekers are loth