The Need for Truth

When out of the window concern for truth flies
A great many problems will quite soon arise,
For truth is the one thing that helps to ensure
That honesty, knowledge and facts will endure.
If people are frightened to state what they know,
The number of lies that abound will soon grow,
As truth is supplanted by what won't offend
And most people follow the popular trend.
At least when in public; they may when alone
Admit to a truth which is not just their own.
But accepted by others still able to think
Who've looked at the facts, but drawn back from the brink
Of telling the truth, for they know this might cause
Offence to some people, and may break some laws.
Dictators often love lies over truth,
Knowing that they can deceive much of youth
Who haven't the knowledge to see through their lies
And how they're complicit in truth's sad demise.
It's only by keeping truth firmly in view
With free speech as normal, the thing that is due
From all in authority, though they might feel
A few untrue statements  has much more appeal.