The Simple Lie

by John Herlihy

There is something simple about a lie,

In fact, nothing is as simple as a lie.

A lie is but a lie is but a lie, no more,

Lies ring as a hollow bell, forever more.

Further embellishment need not be said,

The lie’s heart has already been bled.

Only the lie knows its own score,

Ways of the truth all lies deplore.

The smile of a lie holds a dimple,

Smiling as truth, what is more simple.

The next time you hear a lie give a wink,

The lie will no doubt wink back blink-a-blink.

The lie always ready everywhere to go,

Telling people what they needn’t know.

The lie always wishing to be a miracle,

Wishing to be the truth, it’s that simple.

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Copyright © John Herlihy

Friday 11 June 2025