Fallacy, Fantasy At Face Value Poem by John Sensele

Once I thought I could trust people at face value
Now I question motives behind people's actions
To ascertain how true every clue
Rings before I acknowledge the veracity of emotions, reactions and predilections.

Once I thought people's thoughts mattered little
Now I wonder if plastic smiles
Conceal more than just spittle
That meanders to seamy sides of life for miles.

Once I thought people prioritized benevolence
Now I know people conspire to inflict harm
On souls they claim to love dishing out malevolence
Behind a façade, a veneer of charm.

Once I thought I could take amity for granted
Now I scrutinize relationships
More closely, critically instead of being enchanted
With sullied smoke silhouetted, simulated as cosy kinship.

Once I thought serpents slithered away
Now I know their forked fangs
Trigger-happy don't delay to slay
Simpleton souls despite their tame tongues.