The Star

Her sweet smile lights up the afternoon screen Dancing her way into America’s hearts each day, With special gifts to the completely unsuspecting Christmastime is replete with a massive give-away. Take good care of yourself. Be kind to everyone. To be mean, or put down a famous guest is taboo, But her delight is in embarrassing her contestants A wrong answer will force them to wallow in goo. When the lights are turned out on the lavish set And the stage crew is sequestered until tomorrow, Some of the underlings will experience her wrath, for Any perceived mistake must be paid for in sorrow. One must watch the program carefully to see A tinge of sadism masquerades in innocent play, Behind the seemingly harmless veneer of fun Lurks a nefarious force in the afternoon of each day. This star takes delight with raucous laughter in scaring Stagehands, the crew, and celebrity guests, too, So subtle viewers may not realize what is happening Like me, they will stop watching her show when they do. EIGHTH PLACE WINNER Written February 13, 2021 For "Bitter Satire" Contest Sponsored by Edward Ibeh