He hides behind his mask
pretending his grief is all a show,
dressed in tattered clothing
and old worn-out shoes.

He wears a painted frown
to cover up his woes
and the make-up tears that stain his face
disguise the real ones underneath.

The sound of others’ laughter
follow him where he goes
and he lets their joy envelop him
for without it, he has only his despair.

Skilfully he hides his true emotions
dressed up as a sorry fellow,
keeping his heartaches deeply hidden,
displayed before us in plain sight.

        may 2003