A Gift Not Given

To write some words and claim we know ourselves,

As if words on a screen mean anything.

As if we can sum ourselves up-

Fifty words to capture a lifetime.

Adjectives, adverbs, toss in a noun and a verb:

A person, reflected on paper.

Know thyself?

How can I show that I know myself

Through words and symbols on shallow screen.

The curve of a finger and the click of a key

Mean nothing of a glinting amber eye or the curl of hair,

Not to speak for the spark of mind or whirl of imagination.

Even if my eyes were dull and my hair lax,

My mind dry and my imagination still,

I cannot know all of my hidden depths

Not enough to give to you.