An Actor's Life

At three 'o clock this afternoon, A shaft of light pierced my room. Curtains flung back as I arise: An actor's life I do surmise! Working halls and live theatre, Singing songs in every meter. Playing Hamlet, then a clown, Each week it changes in this town. Tonight my accent is deep Fen, My entrance scene is played again. People come to see me ramble, I am a cop; Inspector Randall. Bungling cases, then success: Miss Marple would be so impressed! I love the clapping of the crowd, We take our bow, feeling proud. Then travelling home in my old car To see my kitten, Balthazar. The night is cold, it's nearly three, My kitten is here, on my knee. I sip some vino, 'Espanol', The kitten thinks I am his doll. Razor needles pierce my skin, But I am calm deep within. Night owls hoot, it is bedtime, I finish off my blood-red wine. Take Balthazar his little toy, To watch him play is such a joy. I say goodnight and shut the door Thinking of tonight's applause: An aged actor's life to stay. Tomorrow it's a matinée.