I learned a lesson early,
don't be seen.
wrap up tight into a hedgehog ball
spikes, spikes, spikes.
never look anyone in the eye
they might just know what you are.
if you don't put your head above the line
you won't get it shot off.
they say words don't hurt,
whoever they were lied
still lie, lie to cover hate.
we learn darkness and shadow are safe
blend, pretend, don't offend
become chameleon.
sometimes though you realise you have to come out
rise up from dusty knees
rise up from your dirt poverty
rise up, rise up, rise.
and shout and say
stop, enough, is enough, is enough.