You’re marvelous; fabulous in a play
The star no understudy can replace
To your friends, you’re hailed a stud
The chosen one with that captivating gaze

The critics rave; the audiences applaud
They stand past the curtain call, till the end of the day
Soon the crowd disperses, your co-stars retire
Your face and mask inseparable, they fuse into clay
Yes it’s intact, and you’re stuck in the act

Carpenters come, swift hands dismantle sets
You’re still dressed; tattered, distressed. A silhouette
Electricians flick switches, fiddly with the art
Lights go down, the next ensemble’s crowned
No one else, just you; a solitary part

You’re marvelous; fabulous in this grand play
The star. No one wants to take your place