That Self. Poem by Terry Collett

She would peel
off her skin
to escape herself
if self were wrapped
in that skin.

She would cut off
all her hair
if that self
were tainted
by the length
or growth of hair.

She would cry
a thousand tears
if that self
drowned therein.

She would smash
all mirrors
if that self
stared back at her
all too often
or so seemed.

She would
slit her throat
if that self
were tied to each sinew
of that nerve or skin.

But that self
is deep
echoing within.