CCCVII - The Ring of Steel

This grew out of a conversation that I had with a friend and colleague.

It started out reflecting on body ornamentation.  The last two verses are a nod to the fact

that many people go about their lives quietly, not revealing that they too

have things that pierce them, away from public view;

pain, responsibility, disappointment.

Any resemblance to anyone, living or dead, is purely coincidental.


The Ring of Steel

He dresses neatly for the business day,
Conservatively so, but without a tie.
Anyone watching him would have to say
He was perfectly mannered, if somewhat shy.

Chorus
We know so little about each other:
Partners, parents, neighbours, lovers.
Only with time will you finally discover
That a book does not reflect its cover.

He does his job, he knows what to do
In the pantomime of work, he plays his part.
But beneath his clothes and out of view
A secret is kept, close to his heart.

Chorus

Oblivious to it when he’s sitting still
He never thinks of it while he’s talking.
But it gives him a secret and sensuous thrill
As it swings to and fro when walking.

Chorus

If you didn’t know, you wouldn’t know,
And there’s some comfort in that fact.
But in the end it just goes to show
That people are often putting on an act.

Chorus

But not every secret is a pleasurable one,
Some conceal quite desperate lives;
Briefly forgotten while their work is done
They get some respite, from nine to five.

Chorus

Perhaps they’re ashamed or perhaps too proud,
Perhaps they don’t know how to start
To describe what's hidden from the crowd,
What steel rings they have beside their heart.

Chorus
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© 2012   J Cosmo Newbery

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