We begin as pebble or clay.
Simple and pure, 
Crushed and finely ground.
Mixed, extruded and baked
Molded brick or pliable mortar.
Stockpiled provisions,
Designers prepared.

Transgressions endured.
Indiscretions committed.
Gradually tainted,
Contaminated.
Quickly trained masons
Erect walls
To contain and prohibit.

We build elaborate skyscrapers,
Temples or mud-crusted hovels.
Doorless rooms
Block introspection.
Blacked out windows
Defend against scrutiny.
Revolving door spin
Visitors at whim.

An occasional guest permitted,
Coffee sipped over casual conversation.
Other times we take on a tenant
Or maybe a prisoner to reside
Forever in a secret chamber
Kept under lock and key.

Sometimes sharing a party wall,
More often standing alone
Set nearby other towers.
Together we build a city
of hardened structures,
A community with doors locked
And curtains closed.