Masked

When I took a step towards you, you took two steps back
My face repulsed you - I could read it on your visage
And now my face is hidden; now I do not in beauty lack
For I am concealed behind my voice which veils this image

Society has refused me, will you do this too?
To a poor human being whose countenance disgusts?
Equality for all, but is that really true
Or will I, unloved, simply wear into dust?

This mask is my friend, it casts me not away
And ere long perhaps will be my comrade
Forever with me, by me, night and day
Until the day I expire and fade

A cruel world to live in, for hideousness is repelled
And will get you cast away from pitiless human kind
I am the one who from the living world was expelled
So where shall I love's tender touch find?