My crowd were taught to be

Whatever you aren't.

Easier than unfolding your heart -

Your curtailed self,

When you're hemmed in

Up against that invisible line,

As real as God.

We were learned well, though:

Being thoroughly outmanoeuvred -

Run almost ragged as the flags

Planted in our hedgerows and halls.

You couldn't have us now if you wanted us.

Our unappeasing face

Is your creation,

Yours alone.