a simple pattern

a simple pattern that is not quite real
under the moulding's nothing that is true
what's readily apparent to the view
tells nothing that we don't already feel
is false and tawdry and not worth the deal
but still pretends to be both clean and new
we note the symbols but we have no clue
and no true standard left for our appeal
above us there's nothing but pale sky
the sun beats down and there is no regret
the monster lurks sharpening tooth and claw
there is no solace in what passes by
the purpose of our memory we forget
and none but a few can now recall the law