Fake It

Like some clown with a painted face
With hot tears running down the cheek
Showing outward coolness and grace: wanting real feelings to displace
Raucous laughter can be loudest
When pitched in deep pain and sorrow
Joking around and making jest: wanting real feelings to divest
Speaking the words of sweet kindness
In a rote style and empty way
Disguising the disdainfulness: wanting real feelings to dismiss
Gritting the teeth and bearing it
When unfairly accused or tried
Though seething in the stomach pit: wanting real feelings to omit
Hiding like a frightened turtle
Beneath a safe, protective shell
Shyly cringing, weak and brittle: wanting feelings to belittle
Sometimes a "whistle in the dark"
Displaying a courageous front
Even if fear is downright stark: wanting real feelings to unmark