Hiding behind the fragile mask
My emotions unknown, unshown
A ceramic smile, painted eyes
Carefully shaped cheeks, perfect nose
You claim to know how I feel
I’m happy, you say, content
I try to frown, try to cry
My reactions masked, hidden
You hold me in your arms
Holding me up, I say
Much like a doll, your toy
I try to walk, try to lead
Left with only hands to speak
You bound my wrists
With silk and satin, gentle and tight
Yet bonds they are, constricting
You dress me up and take me out
Velvet and leather, gowned and shoed
Behave, you say, heed your words
I have to listen, have to obey
This mask, these bonds, these clothes
You’re making me up, dressing me up
I start to question, start to wonder
Am I real, do I exist?
I thought I was the one hiding
I thought I was afraid
You’re hiding me, I have no choice
How have I shamed you?
Left alone behind the mask
Gorgeous and appealing, flaunted
Dainty and delicate in silk and satin
You say you’re proud, you say you’re happy
Yet here I am
Unseen, unheard
Unloved, unknown
Hidden.
SnowKissed, 2003
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