Closing Ranks

Something extra is needed to describe what occurs When we know ranks are closing. They say not a word. But the feeling of stifle permeates air. It's silent effusion is spread everywhere. Faces take on avoidance hiding confusion, Yes hiding behind this look of exclusion. Politeness reigns when secrets lie covered In stone-walling glances, but no-one seems bothered As lips become tighter shade by pert shade. Where does it end this deception encountered When money or death needs the ghosts to be laid.? It's nigh universal this being afraid To speak simple truth, more than words left unsaid. Ranks were closed tightly once long ago when Against all innocence deemed blasphemy- Lo.! they Took out the Nazarene, stoned and abused him Religion-fired zealots despicably used him. These lessons of closure still fall on deaf ears Never learned in the telling. How many more years Will battle formation by closure, shut, Not only mouths but encase feared fears.?