Classic Poem

Far from the Player's Club but not in play
For many months I have wandered far away
As one man in his time plays many parts
(Bacon) I masquerade in many arts
Disguised as a Reviewer push the pen
And learnedly correct more learned men
Make up just like a literary man
And look as like a poet as I can
Carrying the deception to the point, I fear
Of even writing verse, as I do here

I missed your brightest shows; I cannot tell
How Mr King got on as Ariel
It has not been my privilege to hear
Holloway's Cobweb, Beecroft as King Lear
Or learnt how Maurice Solomon, they say
Romped through Goliath in the Scripture play
But I have not forgotten; and to you
For all your works I yield my thanks anew
You whom, whatever part your fancy plays
We need not judge and we are safe to praise.