It’s all pretence, I see, my Dear This facade that you live so well, Your look, your walk, the very talk Convinces most, but I can tell, That just beneath your garlanding There lives a soul so insecure, So nervous in a measured way, That every second... you perform To structure a collapsing day.
Softly and with gentle touch I kiss your anxious, fevered brow, Stroke the tightness in your neck Reassure that you know now, Your secret is secure with me. I step aside and beam to you My silent, warm applause, my Dear For your command performance Holds at bay this constant fear.