Edward Ibeh Poet Didactic

Notes About The Poem

To Thine Own Self Be True

Never shed your skin
       like snakes often do. You lose 
            your core sense of self;  
                 large chunks of it
            wearing an ersatz skin.

           Being precisely yourself
            is being blissfully free. 
            Are you free? At peace?
             Does your soul dance
        with unalloyed contentment?

                If false, why not be
    the same face staring back at you
           in the mirror? Why not be 
               the same beautifully 
          imperfect you in solitude?

           Be content wearing only
           your own mask. So what 
            if its cracked? Your skin
           is the only one you need.

           Stay as you are; not less,
     or greater than, or a carbon copy.
         Lest you become a stranger 
          in your own life; a prisoner
                   in your own skin.


Submitted for...
Strand Select M,Any Form ,Any Theme Poetry Contest
Sponsored by: Brian Strand
Date: 02/12/2020

Date written: 08/27/2019

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Reason A. Poteet August 31, 2019 at 1:00 PM Well-done, Edward. Love the thoughts you put forth on self-deception. The phrase "beautifully imperfect" caught my eye and mind. Edward Ibeh August 31, 2019 at 1:54 PM Thank you, Reason A.:-) I'm glad this poem resonated with you!

Darlene De Beaulieu August 28, 2019 at 2:05 PM Hello Edward Ibeh, This poem is well expressed. A message for everyone to read in poetry. Have a nice day my friend. Edward Ibeh August 28, 2019 at 3:53 PM Thank you so much, Darlene:-)

Chris Green August 27, 2019 at 4:14 PM Beautifully expressed Edward. Your words ring true. Edward Ibeh August 27, 2019 at 5:23 PM Thank you, Chris:-)