Full Length Mirror

Reflection in a full length mirror

Tells the story of a lived out life

The furrowed brow and wrinkles

Lay the tracks of angst and strife

Glossed over eyes, darkened rims

Protect the doorway to the soul

Once so bright and welcoming

Shield shattered mind not whole

Withered smile no longer sharp

Worn down to upturned curl

Cheerful grin long since departed

As the tales of time unfurl

Shoulders slumped in broken stance

No longer thrust back with pride

A chest that heaved a thousand sighs

Falls flat and silent, empty inside

Flat toned stomach consumed by time

Aged and scarred through an eon of use

Sinewy strength of a forgotten age

Flesh hangs on the branch too loose

Dexterity lost through manipulation

Skeletoid digits curled up like claws

Weathered palms replace the silken touch

Reflect life’s tale and all it’s flaws.

Thighs once bronzed and golden pillars

Strong trunks that carried body proud

Listing limply now like broken vessels

Stagger slowly through the madding crowd

Shattered knees destroyed by pounding

A million streets and hallowed ground

Ankles swell for no apparent reason

Muscle and tendons become weak and round

Where once were roots strong and supple

Now cracked veins support the tree

Gnarled broken toes reflect the final image

The full length mirror of a life lived free

© Fergus Martin

2012