Poetry Explorer

Classic and Contemporary Poetry

THE MASK by WILLIAM BUTLER YEATS

Poet Analysis

First Line: PUT OFF THAT MASK OF BURNING GOLD
Last Line: IN YOU, IN ME?'
Subject(s): MASKS;
'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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