Xenophobia and Paranoia

Xenophobia and paranoia
Have always found hospitable hosts
In the backcountry crevices of our land;
Places where ignorance is cherished,
Practically imposed by law,
For any gleam of enlightenment
Shines a harsh beam on anguished lives,
Decorated with lies and excuses
Used to blame all but the blamers themselves.
Deflection and denial run rampant
Where joyful living cannot endure,
And boredom, coupled with resentment,
Thrives and feasts on human hearts.