loss of an icon

there used to be

something about you.

an unknowable essence

which was out of my reach.

there used to be this

dynamic, unyielding presence.

I thought that was

the ultimate goal that I sought.

now I see the frailty,

the desire slides through

and exposes in the sunlight.

it can’t be hidden

by the years on your head.

we are all simply human,

none of us exempt

from wanting and desire—

the relentless chain of events.

some play the game

of appearances better than others.

but, let’s just be human

and screwed up and vulnerable

let’s be honest

and not try to hide

it from ourselves.