this mask

d jon downs

this mask
draped uncomfortably
occasionally stretched
frequently loose
presses and sags
into and away

this mask
holds so rigidly
occasionally smirks
frequently cool
conceals and obscures
desires deep within

prayers
offered up in silence
that you know
the true intent
behind
this mask

hidden longing
of such intensity
to gently caress
(masked)
to passionately kiss
(masked)
to completely love

behind
this mask

prayers
offered up in silence
that you know
absolutely
my only wish:

to closely hold
and remove
this mask

[ 2002 ]