The Actress

By Ellie Stokes

I've been an actress

For so long now

That I'm not really sure

How to let my guard down.

I've learnt to be open

And talk about my life

But behind my smile

Is so much strife.

I won't talk about the present,

Only the past

And I'll disguise my pain

By forcing a laugh.

My mask is wearing thin,

My face showing through,

I'm starting to tire,

I'm missing my cues.

I'm battling myself

Day in, day out;

I'm fighting a war

You know nothing about.

I can fake all emotions,

Fool everyone around.

I've hidden my real self

So it'll never be found.

All I want is to be loved

For who I truly am

All I really need

Is a gentle helping hand

But I'll never accept it -

I'm an independent showgirl.

You'll only see the face

That I put on for the world.

My mask is cracked,

My costumes fraying

But the show must go on

So you'll find me saying:

"Ladies and gentlemen,

This show cuts like a knife.

I hope you enjoy

The performance of my life".

By Ellie Stokes