Fool’s Paradise

I was sure I had belonged somewhere,  with fairies and pirates and mermaids, but I had landed elsewhere

Neverland wasn’t far away, yet it seemed like it was a place where I could stay

Had to take the leap of faith, unaware of the coming wraith

Tinker Bell asked me to fly, how could I? for I had no courage because I had no wings to try

Never-ending childhood seemed like a perfect disguise,  but I wasn’t sure if it was just a fool’s paradise

Wendy Darling couldn’t express her love, I feared neither could I without the help of a dove

Peter Pan never noticed my entice, I’m afraid the attention I sought was a fool’s paradise

The Lost Boys searched for someone to embrace, how could I help?  for I myself was in their place

Michael Darling refused to let go of his teddy bear and John Darling was certain no one would care, both had to be told that one should not despair

The Mermaids were full of frivolous games and spice, encouraging mortals to fantasize , unaware that it was just a fool’s paradise

Tiger Lily refused to betray and chose to drown,  rescued by the one she admired, made quite a dance down and left others with an envious frown

Captain Hook wanted to throw me into the mouth of the crocodile, if only I had paid attention to the Tick-Tock I would have had a chance to make my life worthwhile

Tinker Bell sprinkled some pixie dust, I ended right back onto my bed, but this time with lost trust

Neverland wasn’t far away, yet it seemed like it was a place where I would go astray

I was sure I had belonged somewhere,  with fairies and pirates and mermaids, but I had landed elsewhere

                                                                    — Ruby Khan