
O! Mirror; mirror hanging there
Reflecting all that cross your path
Impassive accuracy beyond compare
No hint of preference or wrath.
O! Mirror; would that you show all truth!
Not only countenance, but see our hearts
Reflect not the cover, but read each page!
Though long-gone the dew of youth-
The wisdom of years to the spirit imparts,
So parse the whole, my worth to gauge.
~
O! Mirror; hanging static on that wall
You follow me not throughout my days
You see a glimpse but not my all
Reflecting the moment but not the days.
O! Mirror- my face you glimpse at start of days,
Countenance sleepy-bright-anticipation with intention full of hope
To move with purpose, kindness, action!- through the coming hours.
Then at night, with fervor-crisped from the daily craze
Intentions now tangled within Life's jump rope,
You reflect etched lines and reveal my soul's glowers.
~
O! Mirror- framed becalmed silver lake of glass
You speak not, but steadfast provide reflection
My countenance an unheeded masterclass
Of the results of the day that are deeper than my complexion.
Every morning brings with it a gift-
As at dawn you silently remind me as I glance-
Upon your polished surface shining bright.
Then evening, question: was I true to my time or give short shrift?
Did the day find me kind when I had the chance?
Eve's moonglow brings the Now of grace-giving hindsight.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
This Ode is written in the English style, with a classic rhyme scheme of ABAB CDECDE.
This poem written for a Vocal Challenge was my first sonnet:
My other poems written on Vocal are here.
Please let me know in the comments: Are you the type that only looks in the mirror once or twice a day? Do you take the opportunity to do a quick glance in windows as you walk by? What do you check for when looking in a mirror?
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About the Creator
Judey Kalchik
It's my time to find and use my voice.
Poetry, short stories, memories, and a lot of things I think and wish I'd known a long time ago.
You can also find me on Medium
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Reader insights
Nice work
Very well written. Keep up the good work!
Top insights
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions



Comments (17)
Excellent work Judey!!! I love the flow and the reflective nature of the questions you ask.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful words
Bravo Judey! Phenomenally written & profound!
A poetic reflection upon a reflector of reflections.
Reflective and multifaceted. Fascinating.
One of your best poems, Judey!
“Intentions now tangled with life’s jump rope” Such a beautiful line!!! 🥹
Remarkable Piece ❤️😉👍💯❗
The perfect choice of form for this beautiful ode.
Beautiful and compelling! I just watched Snow White (I've been watching all the old Disney movies lately) and for that reason, this reminded me of "Mirror, Mirror, on the wall..." 🤗 Love it so much! Really enjoyed the message in this ❤️
Fabulous ode to the mirror!!! As always, superbly written!!! Love this!!!♥️♥️💕
Very powerful piece, Judey! Love this style! Worked perfectly for your message. Wonderful work!
“Impassive accuracy.” Such a great pair of words!! 👏👏
Wow. You did a great job on this. Well done.
A piercing and reflective poem Judey. Mirrors do not deceive, our eyes do. Great entry 😎 👏
I am certainly glad you finished the lovely piece.
Stunning work, Judey! I hate mirrors, personally, but I understand their importance and the part they play. You perfectly described, emoted and gave life to that reflective, yet inanimate object! Lovely jubley!