QUIET by Mary Wertel

Quiet, do not make a noise
Be sure to pick up all of your toys

Don't draw attention to yourself
Be still as a doll upon a shelf

Quiet, do not make a sound
He must not know you are around

If you stay hidden, you have a chance
Put yourself into a trance

Quiet, do not say a word
You mustn't ever be heard

For any word spoken there is a cost
Talk to the wrong person, all is lost

Quiet, or else he does shout
There can never be any doubt

It is his house; he is in charge
You are small and he is large

Quiet, you must not cry
Or he will give you a reason why

Violence is how he communicates
Anger and cruelty are his main traits

Quiet now, not a peep
Or you will end up in a heap

He will teach you to behave
Maybe put you in your grave

In your life there are few joys
Unless you are quiet and make no noise