[Sometimes we all wear masks and it can be difficult to see the person behind it] [Verse 1] Big red nose and painted grin They cheer the moment I walk in Juggling jokes and spinning lies They never look beyond my eyes The children laugh, the parents sigh But no one asks the “who” behind the “why” [Chorus] And when the curtains close I’m just a shadow in repose Dinner for one, silence too loud Take off the wig, escape the crowd The mirror sees me—no applause Just painted cracks and hidden flaws [Verse 2] Once I danced with stars in my eyes Now I mime through love’s goodbyes Her voice still echoes through my act But joy’s a skill I learned to mask The makeup hides the mess I’ve grown It’s hard to cry when you’re alone [Bridge] Some nights I dream I disappear Like smoke that drifts beyond the pier Would anyone recall my name The jester lost behind the game [Final Chorus] And when the curtains close No spotlight follows where I go No punchline left, no “see you soon” Just one more clown beneath the moon I smile for them, then sigh for me The laugh is loud, but never free
