Quote
How to present oneself, to seem human yet come out well? As when one looks in the mirror or at a picture, trying for the best angle (surreptitiously), but come out always the same? Some people stand themselves sideways, others intrude what they want to be, others ask who they are. But the truth is that we are always watchful, lying in wait for ourselves, pointing up only the obvious, concealing the irregularities of our apprenticeships and of time itself.
- Pablo Neruda, Chilean poet (1904-1973)
Self-Portrait
I have - or see myself as having - a round nose, uneven teeth, a wiry frame, long legs, a tawny complexion. I am discreet with love, hopeless with details, clumsy with words. Enthusiastic about trees, stars, and skies. A road runner (on occasion), jealous of birds, repentant always. A friend in progress, impatient with loved ones, unaware of enemies. A bruised heart, awkward with strangers, helpful when called upon. A dabbler in photography, relaxed in drawing rooms, messy in notebooks. A terrible administrator, carefree with money, constantly misplacing things. An idle dreamer, content in solitude, peaceful under stormy skies. A slow walk, a music merchant, a prowler of bookstores. Withdrawn in a crowd, melancholy in the markets, hungry all day long. A tireless seeker, slow of answer, witty days after the fact. A fierce daysleeper, vulgar in moods, keeper of the night. Compassionate, loyal, cowardly - but not to a fault. Lazy by vocation, active in suffering, a poet by ill fate, and something of a fool.
- Inspired by Pablo Neruda
