The Street Evangelist

THE STREET EVANGELIST There is a new dark shroud of wintry mass, Covering the hidden beauty of the land. It emanates from a deceptive layer Of smooth-honeyed words which stroke Their spiteful way into artless minds, Hearing with open conduits. The charlatan, dressed up As a worthy preacher, Smirks through his enticing act Of treachery, no one, listening Except the crazed followers to nowhere. The rest of humanity go about Their untroubled business Without a furtive glance, Disappearing into thin air. Perhaps a single raised eyebrow Betrays profound disdain. Otherwise, life goes on As though quackery is far from All circles of sane thought.