African Masks

In the heart of Africa 

In the dim light of a burning fire

Shadows dance on the walls

Wisdom carved in wood and paint 

African masks, woven tales of ancestors 

Regarded as guardians of the tribe 

Weaving tales from the past

Each visage, a history carved in wood 

Painted in ochre and charcoal 

Faces carved from the heart of a tree

Eyes carved, daring and alive

Piercing the veil between worlds

These African masks crafted in wood 

Hold the weight of tradition 

Transcending the boundaries of flesh 

Here in the flicker of the firelight

The masks come alive, voices intertwining

History and culture unite in the dance of shadows and light