Sorrow behind the Gaiety

A Poem by AnayaJ.

He is trying to control, but he is failing; because on the inside, he is breaking.

He laughs

But the sound is not genuine

He smiles

But the curve of his lips is a lie

He jokes

But they're humorless

He pretends he is okay

But he is not

He pretends he is happy

But he is not

He has a put on a facade

He wants no one to see

The sorrow behind the gaiety

There are tears in his eyes

But he does not let them escape

His jaw tightens

But he remains impassive

They think he is buoyant

They think he is jolly

No one knows

That there is sorrow behind the gaiety

His heart is breaking audibly

His tears are threatening to fall

The facade is wearing off

The mirth is vanishing

Sorrow is apparent

And so is misery

He is trying to control

But he is failing

Because from the inside

He is breaking

Now everyone can see that he is sad

He does not smile

Nor does he laugh

He has been unmasked

He has been exposed

Now everyone can see

He was never happy

And that all this time

There was sorrow behind the gaiety

© 2016 AnayaJ.

Author's Note

Leave reviews! Thanks!!!! :)

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Reviews

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I think this piece is very relatable and perhaps personal, I'd say you wrote it well even, but I've read dozens of poems here that are exactly like this.

Posted 7 Years Ago

7 Years Ago

Thankss!! I haven't browsed through the poem section much, didn't know this topic is common. Perhaps.. read more

7 Years Ago

their own words*

Tabby Mac

Love this! It illustrates many a people I believe. I especially enjoyed how you showed the transition of hiding sorrow to exposing it.
It makes me go on to think of the man after he's exposed. I'd like to think he's somewhat satisfied he doesn't have to pretend, but having personal experience myself he is probably not.
Others although shocked saying that explains a lot often show pity and walk away. Not many stay and inquire.
Writing that leaves one with after thoughts is always cherished by me!
Thank you for sharing! This is very well written! I enjoy the topic too!
Tabby

Posted 8 Years Ago

8 Years Ago

Thankss!!! :)))

Common theme, well expressed.

Hiding one's sorrow behind a clown mask of happiness and joviality; we all do this. It is a human attempt at remaining strong and fighting the sorrow outwards rather than from within.

You have used some very good description throughout despite the unorthodox flow and structure of the piece. In all, a good attempt at displaying the false facade that we cover ourselves with when in the grip of melancholia.