At This Late Stage (Poetry)

So you want to know the truth about your father
the facts about your broken family
I wonder, since till now you’ve not been bothered
why come at this late stage and question me?

You’ve let the silence grow so long between us
the years have come and gone without a word
no little voice within you nagged for fairness
my version of events you left unheard

Perhaps you have discovered someone’s lying
the tale they spun you once has not held true
so you have doubts and, feeling rather guilty
think I’ve a duty to enlighten you

You might imagine I’ll find satisfaction
and grab the chance to put the matter straight
since it’s festered long in chilly isolation
for all this time and I’ve just had to wait

Not knowing if there’s anybody out there
who gives a damn or even has a clue
of the damage done by secrets and betrayal
yet I’m not inclined to share the hurt with you

You’ve escaped the sticky bonds of blood that tied us
I grieved you had no kinder heart to show
the past is past — no point in exhumation
I will take the sadness with me when I go