Reflections

A baby looks into his mother’s eyes,
and finds himself reflected, so he learns
his own identity; that he is Man.
That’s how it is - although we think we’re wise
we glance to check, and hope approval burns
in someone’s gaze; we earn it if we can.

So if like most, you judge yourself by what’s
reflected when your peers look back, I’ll tell
you what I’ve found: Beware the winding track
that leads you on to wild uncharted spots
a-gleam with shadowed eyes - I know them well.
Beware the beast that stalks behind your back...

Should you give chase, and catch what you’ve pursued,
you’ll find its eyes reflecting you as food.