The Mime Actor

Around a circle stage below,
People sat, stretching on above;
By the trap door on the brown stage
An actor came, smeared with white paint.
His brows were black, his lips were pink;
This black-clad man came to mimick.
As they did watch, some laughed, some frowned,
Some left their seats, or turned around.
It's natural what folks can think
When metaphors seem meant to prick.
But the actor showed no feelings,
As he taught those who were willing:
' The flesh is coloured ere you came,
And no two races look the same;
But colour and learning are less
Than the worth of right hearts. Folks, yes.'

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