A well traveled road...

Playing along and singing my song... I met an old man on a well traveled road who asked me where I'm from His well mannered tone and mischievous grin did not suit the crook in his back With an old gnarled hand and a crooked wood cane he beckoned I follow him further I stiffened my knees and politely agreed But knew I was on the wrong track He said "welcome my friend, this street has no end And I know every crack and dark corner Every pleasure is yours and you can be sure there's no reason to be wary I make the contacts and seal every deal I'm the man behind the scenes Just free your soul and name your desire that is the burden I carry" "You're in the right place, the right time and space don't fear, but stay close to me Just bask in the glory, no need to worry I certainly keep my promise Once dues are spent, there is no fine print everyone will know your face Don't doubt my intent, I will not relent I trade success for solace" "Consider those, on their knees, begging Do you think they'll get any further? Their desire is common but no one is listening and their voices strain without rest The doubt on your face is sorely misplaced I can make your dreams come true Put your talent to test, or follow the best and let fate measure success" I said "I'm from a place with much different tastes lacking such awe and splendor" The lights and the sound all spun me around For a moment, I was lost in wonder But with each step I took and direction I looked I noticed something peculiar Each door ahead and each door we passed I couldn't tell one from the other All doors were busy and patrons were dizzy with delight and expectation Every lust without shame, every sign the same "Here, we've got your treasure" They wore the same clothes and strutted so proudly with all the same approving eyes They smiled the same smiles and sang the same songs these proprietors of pleasure As I turned away I heard my guide say "It's the way of the world my friend... They own the doors and possess all the keys we just play their game" I lowered my face and hastened my pace in fear I'd lose myself completely "Your future is dread" were the last words he said and I never even asked for his name...