The Molded Mask

The human mask of flesh, like clay, is easily molded.

As blood transports its iron, the mask often becomes soldered.

A character is cast, as a response of mind to the world, in body and bone.

Well-wrought iron features hold tension and set the tone.

^ ~ ^

Individuals enter a Noh drama, with a mask that invites recreation

of an often standardized tradition, rather than encouraging innovation.

Animated archetypes follow the plot of a contemporary legend as events

allow dreams, supernatural ghosts and spirits to react to what life presents.

! !

~

The newborn babe smiles and tears fall from their eyes.

This child feels and expresses what is, without any disguise.

They learn to make a mask that can freeze a look, as if in a picture,

creating an image of satisfaction or disapproval and political stricture.

' ~ `

As self-awareness alters the perceptual norm,

the masks of comedy and tragedy transform.

When pretences fall, what lies beneath seems authentic,

until the next mask evolves, perhaps somewhat more simplistic.

< .> . . < .>

A demon can wear a mask of a wise one

a peasant can wear the mask of a king

What lies beneath the mask can have fun

or deliver a message with a bite, laugh or sting.

<. > . . <. >

A smile on the mask of a stoic, who has seen lifetimes of pain,

shares the message that a snarl and anger hold no gain.

A tight-lipped pout, suggests there is reason for strife.

Sometimes it arises by being spoiled by bounty and riches in life.

.\ / .

Half-closed eyes evoke derision in a cold squinting glare.

This look is to deliver a seriously frightening scare.

San Paku - when the whites of an eye are seen from above or below,

suggests there is physical, mental and spiritual unbalance and future woe.

Eyes shifting to the upper left indicates remembering

a shift downward right indicates self-doubt and imagining.

.\\\\ | ////.

Eyebrows that furrow, pinch, knit or narrow

suggest trying to focus and strike a blow.

If eyebrows raise it is a social signal of a welcome invitation

Contrarily when they lower, this indicates annoyance or deception .

/. .\

Wrinkles of a brow indicate stress, anger, grief, and frustration

and worry that a person is acting above their station.

When nostrils flare, or a hand moves to the mouth, chin and nose

the audience senses the stress, discomfort and uncertainty that this shows.

/. .. .\

We hold a chameleon within, that is able to change masks like a hat

It can allow stealthy movements like a cat or cause annoyance like a gnat.

The mind and soul unite and become an artist, always learning to paint

and change the mask to reflect the hungry ghost or content saint.