Le Palais
by Martian Aries

An odalisque from a western kingdom,
the ballet rat has danced and since
her hour upon the stage, has come
to the arms of her personal prince:
a wealthy patron, with a penchant
For dancing girls. She thinks he's,
but a tool, a means of ascent
to riches, eminence and ease.

All in her life consists of charade;
she lowers her eyes in maiden modesty,
her glittered glory a masquerade
swathed in gauze and satin, très jolie.
Vainly she scuffs her little pink slippers,
in the dust from the sultanas' feet,
les premières étoiles, who shine and glitter,
while she longs with fame to meet.