I watch
as it flits
from a sepia tinted moment
to a moment held only
in B & W
before crashing into Kodachrome
that self-same smile
flirt like a bird
amongst the branches
of your family tree
changing sex whenever
it cares to
becoming an uncle...a cousin.. a Mum
...anyone it wants to!
Persisting through the ages
(that same sad secret smile)
worn...but not worn out
by your Dad or a great Aunt
& remark how alike
your great grandfather & you are.
Both the photo & you
smile that same sad secret smile
that I bend to kiss
...this lovely summer’s day.
Dónall Dempsey
http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/shall-i-compare-thee/
