It was not easy
but when he could get away
from the pressures of prying eyes
he could release his bonds
and remove his shirt
and then he let go and fly.

People couldn’t see.
They would never allow that,
to see him rise above them
pumping into the air
high above them
rising beyond what they could ever do.
It would never go over.

Insulated as he was
they would shatter him in moments.
His wealth would not protect him
his beauty would not save him.
His wings would be torn from him immediately
and he’d be struck upon a cross if they ever knew

so he had to be careful about where he flew.
It was only on family property
with special staff who could be trusted
and electronics-damping equipment on.
Money could handle a great deal
of what was necessary
but self-control was still required.

It was not easy,
but the times he could get away
to be free and soar to the heavens
were well worth it.