This is not actually meant to be a poem about homosexuality, though it can apply. In my mind, I was thinking about how in relationships we all play this fake roles and somewhere we have to know the other one is faking it as well and so we are actively trying to win this person's heart that we don't know because they are doing the same thing.
"Kabuki Looks at Kabuki"
Kabuki looks at Kabuki And feels a moment of elation Onnagata dreams out loud Until it unfolds, In his dearest memories. Knows it not That it is not; It would seem. But seemings are strong, And love so carefree and distant Dance hand in hand, Two women laughing In that quaint, Japanese way. Kabuki looks at Kabuki And feels a moment of confusion Onnagata knows the face's mask And it unfolds, In his momentary desires Knows it is not What it would seem. Can not once his love be. But loneliness is long, And love so strange and close. Dance hand in hand, Two men laughing In that quaint, Japanese way.
This poem was written several years ago (2002?) by W Doug Bolden, and has been slightly rewritten and reposted on May 5, 2006.
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