The Mask And The Shadow Poem by Stephen Olufemi Omolara

THE FACE OF TERROR
Take off the veil—
if you're brave enough.
Let courage strip away the mask.
Look me in the eye—
and look long.
Let's see if you can match the devil
in a silent, unblinking stare.

Show your fangs,
or will the first shot drop you?
They call you terror,
but you hide behind curtains,
behind lies,
behind shadows.

You live in delusion,
gripping the world like a trophy—
as if it was ever yours.

Hear me,
this is no mistake.
If you're truly bold,
face the world unmasked.

But no—
you skulk in the dark like roaches,
firing arrows from corners,
aimed at those who never saw you coming.

Step out.
Stand tall.
Face the world
where everyone can see you.

Do you dare?