Peeling Masks

Glittering prisms block dusts
in gazing eyes
colours of hopes
from dreary crumpled pages
of written tales
behind a smiling mask

gazing enrapt at unfolding
stories of princesses
and princes charming
feeling the crown of thorns
on one's brow
furrowed with care

Life's story replayed
on scenic drive in
ignored
by most
laughed at by some
flirting with similar tales

Seen, watched and savoured
through the smiling mask
of a sad juvenile ancient
who scour life's clefts
for remnants of love

Peeling of the mask
Sloughing off skin
from hurts new and old
replacing it with hope
Good dreams
to reach out for.