The play is done; the curtain drops, Slow falling to the prompter's bell A moment yet the actor stops And looks around to say farewell. It is an irksome word and task: And when he's laughed and said his say He shows, as he removes the mask, A face that's anything but gay.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- The end of a performance reveals the actor's true, often weary or serious self beneath the cheerful mask of the role.
- In plain terms
- Actors look serious when the play ends, not happy.
- What can you take from it?
- Public roles often hide the true burdens of the person behind them.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Who are you when the curtain drops?
- What masks do you wear?
Another view
Not all performers feel weary after their work.
More from William Makepeace Thackeray
Despair is perfectly compatible with a good dinner, I promise you.
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Permalink to quote #13 Except for the young or very happy, I can't say I am sorry for any one who dies.
Permalink to quote #10
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