Who can be the same as I?
On whom can they most rely?
To see their white mask fade away
Or their deep black cascade go astray?
They search for me everywhere they go
From street and inns to carriage’s window!
They crave my presence lest be insecure
Although my mockery they cannot endure
Gazing at me hours after hour
Accruing my supremacy, grandeur and power.
But I had met a girl, an autumn ago,
I have seen her since come and go.
She wears a brown mask that wouldn’t fade
Her hair is trimmed, swept in God’s breath
She has a piece of me, minute and smug-
In a corner of her abode, showered in dust.
Often, I try to peek a glance
Her indifference makes me feel like a dunce
They clean me, dust me, and shine my skin
But to look at me she is never too keen.
I yearn for her brown eyes set on mine
A small curve perched at the end of her smile.
I long to see her in the fabric of white
Her face hidden behind the veil of coy
Then, she will not throw me down
Then she will let me wear the crown
Yes, I will be vain but vain of her,
Because she is not like any other
She taught me that I am no Lord
That they waste their time they can’t afford.
This whole world is illusive and forged-
Their face on mine will soon be lost!