The Mask

He often closed his eyes

And drifted into magical nights

Crooning melodious tunes

With stars for company, serenading the moon

At the break of dawn with a silent prayer

A nourished soul without a care

He was ready to take on the world

And savor each moment that unfurled

But this was not forever meant to be!

As the world shall decree!

They ridiculed him, called him crazy

A fool who relished his mediocrity

There was nothing quite as painful

All those names and labels

Into dark nights, he retreated

Wounded and defeated.

The dawn sore with half-healed wounds

And fresh ones from lurking phantom hounds

He wallowed in self- pity and sorrow

Self-doubt and fear of tomorrow.

Life became a perpetually losing battle

His soul and dreams now in shackles

He fought with neither a shield nor a sword

But the brightest mask and a beautiful smile.