Masks

Where in your house is the room that holds your masks?

On the main floor, where the ego lives,

neatly shelved floor to ceiling,

ready to be picked up as you walk out the door?

One countenance for the boss,

another for the waiter,

a third for the acquaintance

met by chance

on a busy street.

Or do you shelter them

on the upper floors,

near the intimate rooms?

Ready to conceal yourself

and become the attentive parent or lover,

regardless of fatigue or indifference.

Late at night,

when everyone sleeps,

do you remember

who lives behind the veil?

© Copyright Monique Lafrenière