The door
Towers above you
Grand. Majestic.
Carved ornate motifs in gilded wood
and metal
and marble all around
inviting you into its world.

And when you step beyond
this doorway
be sure to wear your mask.
Everyone else will.
And there’s no mercy to be given
your naked face they’ll not forget.
So wear the mask
don’t drop it
and dance not to your heart’s true fancy
but dance as the others dance.

And know
That in this world no face is left unmasked
No dance shall soothe the heart
They all know it
yet still it must be done.