Self Immolation

Behold how
In the fire
Of its idle fancies
Mankind burns brightly
Forgetful
Of its true destiny.
Anger provides the spark
Hatred fans the flames
Till they touch the sky.
Lust for power
Instigates the crowds
Greed for money
Takes all they have.
Hunger, poverty, unemployment
Like petrol
Generously sprinkled
Whet the blaze
Till even the muffled cries
Are heard no more.
At dusk
Out of the dying body
Rises phoenix like
Its conscience—
Keeps sobbing quietly
In eternal silence.