“A mirror has no power to show a monster unless that monster stands before it.” – Susan Kay, Phantom
You and I, concave facing
tinfoil underneath glass
the old method of preserving reflection
where no amount of mercury can be hidden.
Mira, mira-
we open our hearts and show them to the glass
the aluminum no longer present
refined methods
where no amount of mercury is needed.
Mirror, mirror-
show me the image:
the laborious fool who lingers
wanting, waiting,
the numb priestess who simpers
blinding, exalting
the sinister sorcerer who loiters
plotting, concealing
inside me.
The Birds and the Fleas 