If you asked me how wide my nose is

I couldn’t tell you. If you asked me

whether it is wider or more narrow

than this person’s or that one’s,

unless the compareil possessed

a schnozz of significant girth

or noteworthy diminution,

I wouldn’t be able to say.

I know your nose is not the same as mine,

but I like it that way. I know your skin

is fairer, your chin more rigid and defined.

I know your eyes have more luster and life.

Nothing I see in you reminds me of me,

but rather of how I’d like to be.

 

© by Scott Owens.

Used with the author’s permission.