How does one tell the sad from funny stuff
In these obsessive characters on stage?
Alas, my French was never good enough.

One character seems ill. Is it a bluff?
Another hates us all. Just jealous rage?
How does one tell the sad from funny stuff?

I speak some French but it is pretty rough
(Although I understand more on a page).
Alas, my French was never good enough.

When actors speak Molière it’s much too tough
For me to follow and I disengage.
How does one tell the sad from funny stuff?

My comprehension isn’t up to snuff,
So I’m trapped, monolingual, in a cage.
Alas, my French was never good enough.

These comedies are tragedies that puff
Away pretentions I’m a cultured sage.
How does one tell the sad from funny stuff?
Alas, my French was never good enough.