An Ode to Egotism

You bizzare creature
(so out-cast in this day and age):
in pretentious democracies you are oft misconstrued
as a one-sided monster of cruelty and rage

No doubt you are genuinely dangerous,
at times taking forms like recklesness and greed:
but the wise know there are things about you
your critics fail to see

Does a young woman covet a diamond ring
when she knows her beauty surpasses any setting sun?
Does a man who trusts in his own power
need to constantly prove it with a gun?

And, without the call of glory and fame,
who would dare to venture into unknown seas?;
who would challenge popular, false ideas,
or drain their brains to the very dregs
to cure terrible diseases?

And those accused of megalomania
are those who wear their pride on their sleaves;
Many a humble politician or magnate
becomes a Nero-like narcissus once the reporters leave

yes, Ego, you are a mercurial being,
and it's not with simplistic love I your praises sing;
for as all with clear eyes can see,
great individuals must serve the greater community

But this bourgeoisie humility so valued on T.V.
is nothing but politic conformity;
This world needs new leaders and excellers of every stripe:
for a new view of positive egotism
the time is VERY ripe!!