If you must speak of drama, disapproving, Then why not walk this errant stage of life Making such pleasing use of furious strife To cheer an audience to its removing? Why shirk acting? By taken role, you learn; If life is but a masque, then seize the play! Perform you well enough, and so you may Cast costume off, to hear applause in turn. But if theater you choose, rehearse with care Above all skill, to keep clearly aware: A play, as all the world, runs means to end; Let acting not your dreams to others bend. Beyond spectators, truest critic lies: Insure that you know this, to win your prize.