An Old Plateau Poem by Mark Heathcote

Don't ask for forgiveness and don't expect any.
This family tree now needs more topiary,
I rather drown in a briny sea without shores
Then shake hands, cut my throat on your gangrenous claws.
I'd rather lie in a bed of snakes than make friends.
Following a parade without mutual ends
Your narcissistic behaviour garners no-
Favour's with me, we have stopped at an old plateau.
I see no future further between you or me.
I'd rather cut off an arm or leg—an amputee
Then shake hands and join ranks of a do-good tyrant.
One who's always righteous, blameless and defiant?
Who thinks they're nothing short of being a saint?
Ties severed - your anger I now reciprocate