When The Mask Is Off

Locations

38117
United States
35° 6' 37.2024" N, 89° 54' 7.0452" W

This mask of gems encased in fool's gold

only shields the flaws and insecurities.

My self-expression and true self sold

for fear of people knowing my impurities.

 

I muster my deepest laughter and smile

and hope they do not do an inspection.

I am forced to resort to such guile

this I do so that I can avoid rejection,

 

Yet if for a second I took off this mask,

all pretenses and facades would fade away.

And for that moment, at least I could bask

in my glory, unburdened of my lies' weight.

 

--------------------------------------------

My smile easily cracked by a simple tap

and tears endlessly flowing like a stream.

Left to place my clenched fists in my lap

“I’M NOT PERFECT!” I want to scream.

--------------------------------------------

 

These acts of kindness that I perform

are because dejection is an old friend.

For me to atone, let me keep you warm.

with my hugs broken spirits I can mend

 

My compassion remains hidden for

fear people will see it as weakness.

I embody many traits at my core

But one of them is not meekness.

 

A lifelong dedication to give a voice

to those whose cries are never heard.

That is why it I make the choice

to take off the mask and be a bird.

Poetry Terms Demonstrated: 

Comments

Additional Resources

Get AI Feedback on your poem

Interested in feedback on your poem? Try our AI Feedback tool.
 

 

If You Need Support

If you ever need help or support, we trust CrisisTextline.org for people dealing with depression. Text HOME to 741741