Mirror

Summary

The poem "Mirror" by Lisa explores the theme of self-identity and the feeling of disconnection from one's own reflection, prompted by the 'stranger' prompt from Spiritual Tree.

Abstract

"Mirror" is a reflective poem that delves into the existential experience of not recognizing oneself, both physically and emotionally. The author describes an encounter with a mirror, where the reflection is perceived as a stranger, leading to a profound introspection about the essence of self. The poem progresses through stages of disconnection, self-examination, and eventual reconnection with the self, acknowledging the complexity of one's own identity. It concludes with a sense of awakening and acceptance, as the speaker reclaims their sense of self and acknowledges their own aliveness and individuality.

Opinions

The author conveys a personal struggle with self-identification, suggesting that one's reflection can sometimes appear as an unfamiliar entity.
There is a sense of duality presented between the self and the mirror image, highlighting the potential for a disconnect between one's inner experience and outer appearance.
The poem implies that the feeling of being a stranger to oneself could be a manifestation of a deeper internal conflict or a cry for self-care and recognition.
The author seems to suggest that moments of self-alienation can serve as a catalyst for self-improvement and the pursuit of a more authentic and fulfilling life.
The poem reflects on the idea that self-awareness and acceptance are crucial in overcoming feelings of estrangement from one's own being.
The author's use of the mirror as a metaphor for introspection indicates a belief in the value of self-reflection as a path to personal growth and understanding.

A Poem For Spiritual Tree’s Prompt ‘Stranger’

Putting my hand to the mirror, I check, is it really me? I only see a stranger. Who is this face, this body? Moving my hand across the glass. Symmetry. So moved the mirror-hand. Smiling, my mirror-face grimaced back. My eyes. My hair.

I step back. The figure. The stranger, Moves further away. Glancing down, my hands, Same veined skin, same freckles. My stranger’s hands synchronised Duplicated. Now four. Four hands make light work, Or short shrift?

On waking, I wonder, Who stands there? Framed In the mirror on my wall. That person, mirror-me, A facade, walking around? She looks like me. She sounds like me. I can see her mouth moving, This mirror-me, this stranger. Moving her lips, syncing with mine.

Has my brain had enough? Do I need to be shaken, To overcome the breaking Of my spirit, of myself? Is it why, on waking, I see someone else, This stranger with my face, My body, my limbs? Is my brain saying, Stop! You deserve more. You deserve life, Not this mirror-like existence, The compromise, a half-life!

I gaze, survey myself, My own body, warm. I reconnect, meeting soft skin Under my hands, my own hands, Careworn, love-filled, prepared, For sacrifice, pain, and joy. Fingertips trace my throat, Warm pulsing blood Under my skin. Warm. I live. I’m alive. The air in my lungs, softly Passing my lips. Lashes, Brushing my cheek. Feet, strong, Planted firmly underneath me, Ready to step forward, As me.

~thanks for reading~

This poem is in response to the prompt ‘stranger’ by Simran Kankas ❤ I once woke and felt like I was a stranger in the mirror. I didn’t recognise myself. From that day I have worked on many levels so I never return to feeling like that. This poem draws on that experience.

Lisa writes poetry and other things from her home in Finland. She is a published poet, has degrees in English Literature and Political History, as well as Education. Her Medium home is For The Love and she has a newsletter called Northern Notes if you’d like to keep in touch. you could consider buying her a coffee too.