The Naked Truth by Jean-Léon Gérôme
By JPYoung
The Lie said to the Truth, “Let’s take a bath
Together, the well water is very nice.”
So they got naked and bathed. Suddenly, the Lie
Leapt out of the water and fled, wearing the clothes
Of the Truth.
The Truth, furious, climbed out of the well to get her
Clothes, back. But the World, upon seeing the naked Truth,
Looked away, with anger and contempt. Poor Truth returned
To the well and disappeared forever,
Hiding her shame.
Since then, the Lie runs around the world, dressed
As Truth, and society is very happy…..
Because the world has no desire to know the
Naked Truth.”
Jean-Leon Gêrôme
Author Notes: Jean-Léon Gérôme 11 May 1824 – 10 January 1904
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