In a sentimental mood...

Fresh Poppies

I cried a little when I told you--

You caressed my cheek,

The tears steadily fell.

You were disdainful of those who came before

Trampling a delicate bloom

'Neath the might of false bravado.

Now I wear fresh poppies in my hair

In memory of a love

Also never there.

As brave a coward as I've seen,

An honest liar I believed.

Your feigned disgust was merely that--

A masquerade for a heart's amusement.

But when the joker shed his skin,

And the last watchful eye went home,

I became not Cinderella,

But a country girl with mop and broom. 

Now I wear fresh poppies in my hair

In memory of a love

Also never there. 

As brave a coward as I've seen,

An honest liar I believed.

I know the world's a cruel place--

I am strongly wiser now.

Your lies no longer lash me,

You grind my heart 'neath booted heel no more.

But do not pretend you loved me--

You are no better than those who came before.

Now I wear fresh poppies in my hair

In memory of a love

Also never there.

As brave a coward as I've seen,

An honest liar I believed.