REFLECTIVE: "THE MIRROR KNOWS" BY DR. RICHARD OYIBO

When the mirror looks, it looks at me,

It does not agree with soft expressions,

Nor my pretence of who I am for a while. 

‘It does not admire smiles or beauty,

It explores my perfection of survival.’

 

The mirror is faithful, unlike many,

Unimpressed by our performances,

It cannot be played by politeness.

Staring widely at what we try to avoid,

Reflecting the truth as it is retold.

 

The cracks concealed with confidence,

Tears that have sunk into the skin,

Strength used to uplift others’ comfort,

Every bravery behind the composure,

The mirror bears witness to it all.

 

It sees who I am, who I want to be,

It sees when no one is watching,

When the burdens are burdensome,

When cost is placed on me being fine,

And when the spark has left my soul.

 

As a friend, it puts me back on track,

Making no judgement of who I am.

Replicating actions, refusing emotions,

Even when I try to hide from the world,

The mirror knows what I withhold.

 

 © DR. RICHARD OYIBO

-Nigeria

This poem is a Confessional Poem or Reflective Poem, with elements of Self-Discovery Poetry. It explores the speaker's inner world, using the mirror as a symbol of truth and introspection . The poem delves into themes of identity, vulnerability, and the masks we wear, contrasting external appearances with inner struggles. The tone is contemplative and honest, with the mirror serving as a faithful witness to the speaker's true self. Richard Oyibo's style is introspective and lyrical, making this a powerful exploration of self and identity .