THE PICTURE ON THE WALL

THE PICTURE ON THE WALL At first I didn’t notice it hanging there Just at the edge of my vision, I declare Then the significance dawned, I swear It was so clearly a future portrait of me An image of how I would prove to be Of course, the years had taken their toll The pale wrinkled skin and greying hair Made it all the more real, as I’m aware But its odd look is more than I can bear It almost reflects some alternate identity With a strange expression for all to see My eyes staring back deep into my soul Young and old images, a contrasted pair The one on the wall was holding its stare As if it had some crucial insight to share Yet cold and lacking any hint of intimacy Was this a real connection or just fantasy I turned as I saw those eyes begin to roll