The Palace of Dreams

Upon a flat expanse of ground,
a circus ring of rocks surround
a shrine of lights and bells and suits,
a strip too parched for any roots.

Yet this fortress sprouts and sprawls
reflects itself in mirrored walls,
preens among the polished brass,
expands forever, deep in glass.

And, this bastion, broad and plush,
the droves invade, a constant rush,
defenses oh so slight and thin,
for every sign shouts: "Please come in!"

Throngs beseech this place of wonder,
wild in pursuit of plunder.
Ripe with what is needed so,
brimming with their goods in tow.

Gold or silver, skills, career,
none of these have value here.
But you need not be estranged,
for all your dreams may be exchanged.

Hopes, ambitions, bring them all,
thoughts of grandeur, wishes tall,
expectations small and great,
for they dare not discriminate.

Would you like a nice safari?
or to drive your new Ferrari?
or to one day buy a house?
procure a diamond for your spouse?

Is it wealth that you desire?
Or, some day, to retire?
Just the dream affords a price,
any fancy will suffice.

When you know what moves you most
approach the counter, make a toast.
Tell the vendor, he will nod,
thousands roar, a fierce applaud.

Then, escorted to a room,
ornate and dark, an empty tomb.
Wait, for soon you will collect,
and get what you could not expect.

He might spin with flashing lights,
expose your eyes to glorious sights.
Feats and tricks that make you smile,
and this will last a little while.

Then, fluorescent lights appear.
Find the exit to the rear.
Delight in what you sense within,
think not 'bout what your dream had been.

Selling dreams is brave, you see?
Why ever give them out for free?
Once relinquished you are paid,
and they take several weeks to fade.

Best of all, you get another,
maybe not enough to cover.
But, though lesser than before,
sell it and you will get one more.

Then, with every dream you sell
The palace grows, its towers swell.
Mirrors wide and high one side,
matched, the other, filled with pride.

So, my friend, abandon ye,
and dare to view all you can see.
Free your worries and your cares,
(oh, and we don't take nightmares).