there's the image of a man

Who commands a high opinion

But he hides his hatred with a sheepish grin



And beside him flanking closely

Are the boisterous hollow masses

Who lap up whatever trickles in



This intercourse of nature,

This vulgar social pastime

Reflects the lowest mark of our progress



And the few who ride peripheral

Maintain subtle advantage

Fighting hard to abstain and redress



Do you know your place

In the big charade?

Are you more than they?



Leaders and followers

Leaders and followers



Recognition by proximity

And a brand new face

Just a smidgen of success pie

And a pinch of social grace

You can play with the big boys

Or you can tell them what to do

But sooner or later there's another one like you



The voyeuristic public

Of which we're all a part

Maintains perspective on the human play



And while many have desires

Of joining in the show

Many turn and go the other way



Tell me do you know your place

In the big parade?

Are you fear and shame?