Final answer:
In the poem "We Wear the Mask," Dunbar conveys the message that false appearances are pervasive in society through the repetition of the phrase "We wear the mask."
Step-by-step explanation:
In the poem "We Wear the Mask" by Paul Laurence Dunbar, the repetition of the phrase "We wear the mask" emphasizes the theme that false appearances are pervasive in society. The mask symbolizes the hidden emotions and true selves that individuals conceal from others. By wearing the mask, people are able to hide their pain, sorrows, and struggles behind a facade of happiness and contentment.
This theme suggests that societal pressures often force individuals to hide their true feelings and present a distorted version of themselves to the world. Through the repetition of the phrase, Dunbar highlights the universal nature of this behavior, suggesting that it is a common experience for many people.
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