Parallel Mirrors

The world, as we see it,
is a mirror of the mind
which the mind glares, trying
to look back at itself
but always falling, lost
in this Narcisus stare.

The mind, as it is,
is a mirror of the world
and when the world moves
a strong godlike right arm
a bantam left hand points down
at the dark back of the mind.

I stare at you often
as if you were my world
for you to stare back at me
with a deliberation
and mischievous intensity
that undresses will and thoughts.

Will I dare to return it
or was I the one who started?
If I am a reflex
let me be aware of it
so that your gaze on my face
a mirror with a purpose.