They built a hero out of expectations

and what a hopeless hero was he

with sticks for legs he shook when the wind blew,

even slightly

and he welcomed the smiles, he welcomed the applause

and he hoped that they'd never forget

just who they thought he was

they dressed him up in rich man's clothes



and told him he was beautiful

then they expected miracles

His parents were pleased they went to all the parties

he was groomed for greatness from the time he was young

raised on a diet of television

he was taught to listen, kept dumb

and he welcomed desire and reckless luxury

and the world soaked up every drop of drama and insecurity

they dressed him up in rich man's clothes

and told him he was beautiful