The Laurel Tree's Credo

I am a narcissist.

I am a fool.

I am a living paradox from which nothing escapes

Unscathed.

I am Apollo pining for love,

And I am Daphne fleeing adoration.

I am the tree that grows bound about a statue,

Adoring its angelic features,

Devouring its beauty,

Growing twisted,

Distorted by greed.

I am a mirror that reflects only my soul.

Peer into me and see yourself;

I will peer out and see only me.

Until my hate corrupts your gentle features

And my disgust cripples your affections;

Your soft heart hardening like mine,

The heat of lost love melting from our eyes.

I am a laurel,

Created by hate and worn for love.