Putting Words On Hold Poem by john tiong chunghoo

some words, some elaborate words
they have not acquired a life
in my system, so they shall not have
the chance to grace my humble stage - the page

i reckon they are still in the makeup stage
bewildering over which colours
to choose for their cheeks, nails
as well as the most flamboyant
outfit to go with them all

until they claim a character
of their own, they shall be held
in silence behind the large red curtains
of my academic stage