With his oversized shoes and oversized suit
His oversized smile and his features so 'cute'
He'll cause you to laugh and forget all your cares
Distract you from worries with fun that he shares.

Behind those long lashes and diamond shaped eyes
There's sadness that's painted bright red in disguise
I step up on board and through glass doors now gaze
I journey along through his dark mental maze.

Although he seems happy this clown's frightened too
Not quite what he might seem to me and to you
He's scared and confused and afraid just ' to be'
He knows not himself; that's why we can't see.

His mind is a muddled and dark cluttered room
A music stand, library and old weaving loom
There songs, rhymes and stories all wait to be woven
In a picture of characteristics, unchosen.

In the bowl of emotions, the water is cold
The bubbles keep popping when he dares to be bold
You won't see him sad or lamenting his lot
He'll just keep on hiding 'neath bright suit and props.

It seems to me wondrous when I find inside
A heartfelt compassion for all of mankind.
Be loving and caring but don't get too close
Revealing himself is what scares him the most.

Preferring to stay safe behind the facade
He keeps you well distanced or just by his side
Your praise and kind comments to him are a threat
He cannot believe himself worthy just yet.

So smile and laugh loud at his antics and jokes
He enjoys making happy all manner of folk
He'll smile when it's over, though never is proud
She'll pack up discreetly; disappear in the crowd.

02/17/2002

Posted on 02/17/2002
Copyright © 2024 Anne Howe