Anxiety Poem by Paula Glynn

Like a performer on the popular stage
Starting the unique and amazing show
He performs his character extraordinarily well
And makes the audience think they know
The character's personality and viewpoint
On his own personal life and personal power.

But the character is a fraud and a fake
With no indications of critical mistakes
And confusion and misunderstandings
Real life tough and complicated and downright nasty
No clapping audience in the cold light of day
Where trash isn't respected but thrown away.

The performer wanting a paper bag over his head
To recite real words he wants to say instead
His life filled with complications and dread
Knowing he has to pay for his butter and bread
Faking it until he is making it lies said instead
Standing up to people whose letters he shreds.

The audience sees the glamorous makeup and clothing
The quirky and unusual fashions of the modern day
Clothes quickly discarded and thrown away
After the popular performance of his theatre life
And in spite of hidden anxiety he does strive
He does pick himself off the floor and bravely survive.