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1865–1939

THE MASK

William Butler Yeats

‘ Put off that mask of burning gold With emerald eyes.’ ‘ O no, my dear, you make so bold To find if hearts be wild and wise,

And yet not cold.’ ‘ I would but find what's there to find, Love or deceit.’ ‘ It was the mask engaged your mind,

And after set your heart to beat, Not what's behind.’ ‘ But lest you are my enemy, I must enquire.’

‘ O no, my dear, let all that be, What matter, so there is but fire In you, in me?’

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THE MASK · William Butler Yeats · Poetry Cove