applause

the play
leaves you wanting.
dry.
still thirsty
for substance,
for a drink
that will cool
your desires.
but you clap anyway.
we always clap
even if it's not
good. we
are trained to clap.
to think
good thoughts,
be positive
in the face
of adversity.
clap, even if it's
stale, and worn,
clap. but
the actors know,
some do,
as they shyly bow
for their curtain
call, knowing
that they missed
their mark. but
the clapping goes
on and on.
meaning nothing,
perhaps encouraging
more mediocrity.