THE JESTER

The Jester performs
to a world full of tears,
his mirthful attempt
to allay the crowd's fears.

With jovial tones;
a sweet serenade,
a sharp-witted quip
for the blushing maids.

But what of the end
of his long, lonely road,
no whimsical smile,
no-one out there to goad.

When laughter runs out
and The Jester runs dry,
the reality sets in
and he can do nought but cry.

After all he has done,
what a way to go down,
with nothing to show
but a sad, lonely frown.

He begs the question,
"Was it worth my while,
this pernicious price
just to make you all smile?"

"Did I help you along
on your dark weary way.
Please now, tell me,
have you nothing to say?"

The audience turns
with a silent goodbye,
as the jaded jester
skulks off, with a sigh.




*

Written by Darren Scanlon, September 2009.
Revised 21st February 2016
© 2016 Darren Scanlon. All rights reserved.