Grimm Truths: Confessions of the Pantomime King

Tonight is where the fak'ry stops:

your regal dreams I'll spoil.

My crown is made of bottle tops

And bits of old tin foil.



I long to tell the world the truth

Because my soul is hurtin' -

My robe is really nothing more

Than tattered, battered curtain.



I come to make you laugh and smile 

With jokes and merry tune,

With orb and sceptre, I rule not,

but ball and wooden spoon.



With my fair queen, I do not share

A love that lasts an age.

My heart longs for the make-up girl

Who waits for me backstage.



Once all you patrons finally see

Your “happ'ly ever after”,

My true and honest words of love

Shall rock each theatre rafter.



My castle is not made of stone:

It's painted on a set.

But cheerful lies are what you want -

Why should I feel regret?



I hear your cack'ling laughter and

Each happy little squeal.

My world is from your childhood dreams -

Who cares if it's not real?



You come to see the fairy tales,

The stories you were told.

So who am I to break away

From pretty plots of old?



I play the part you want me to:

Ignore the fact I've lied.

Deception fills this wicked world,

But mine is justified.