Joel Hawksley Poet Rhyme

Notes About The Poem

"The Man Beneath" explores the universal human experience of wearing a mask and presenting a curated version of ourselves to the world while concealing our vulnerabilities and inner struggles. It delves into the themes of hidden pain, the fear of judgment, and the yearning for authentic connection.

This poem reflects the complexities of identity and the courage it takes to reveal our true selves. I hope it resonates with readers who have felt the weight of hidden emotions and encourages a deeper understanding of the human experience beyond surface appearances.

Listen to poem:

The Man Beneath

The mask I wear, a crafted porcelain guise, 
Hides uncharted depths behind these shadowed eyes. 
 
You glimpse the surface—an actor’s polished play— 
But the soul beneath? He walks a world astray. 
 
These laughter lines, etched scripts of light and cheer, 
Conceal the wars I've waged, the silent fear. 
 
My casual stride, a dance of practiced ease, 
Cloaks ancient burdens, whispered on the breeze. 
 
The tales I weave—a tapestry ornate— 
Thread vivid joys, yet darker truths await. 
 
Each word I speak, wrapped firm in bold disguise, 
Veils restless doubts, unvoiced beneath the skies. 
 
I long to strip this mask and let you peer 
Into the fractured core, the flaws sincere. 
 
Yet fear of scorn—a binding, spectral chain— 
Keeps truths submerged in quiet, unseen rain. 
 
Perhaps one day, in courage, I’ll reveal 
The man unmasked—the wounds that time won’t heal. 
 
Expose the jagged pieces—light and night— 
And hope you’ll see a soul, both fierce and slight. 
 
Until that hour, this visage I’ll sustain, 
A nameless shadow, hiding depth and pain. 
 
But know, beyond this painted, bright façade, 
Dwells more than meets the eye—a soul unflawed.

♡Like0

Share Poem

---

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Joel Hawksley January 13, 2026 at 11:11 AM Thank you, it is great that you could find the time to express your experience and your faith with me here. I write the best I can about what I believe in and what I experience.

Steve Harvell December 30, 2025 at 7:55 PM Joel, well wrote! I've always searched myself in the image portrayed here, could never write me but only the emotions of spirit. You captured it's sweet spot, tho we never really reveal the depths, only portion we want people to see. We find we always fighting our depths just to keep from becoming something we wish not. Nameless shadow or physical being we let live there. Mine has a name, it's Jesus; you find peace in darkness layer.

Zyrool Gifford December 30, 2025 at 1:49 AM Hello Joel, this is an excellent write and a great read. So relatable. I think only the brave will accept these truths. Wishing you a wonderful new year, fellow poet.

David Crandall February 26, 2025 at 5:50 PM Well written Joel. I guess poetry offers a chance to reveal our true selves. Joel Hawksley February 27, 2025 at 4:27 AM Poetry does more than just provide an opportunity to reveal our true selves. It acts like a cast that heals a broken arm, a hug that comforts the soul, and a sunrise that brightens the day. It also offers a place to escape the world around us, if only for a fleeting moment. Thank you for taking the time to help me discover who I am, David.