Essence

So, what is a thing in itself?
Can you know without sensing?
Of course not. Don’t be so silly

Even a man cannot be known without perception
And perception is not always true
Even the self, is illusively known

Only the Maker can say
So, ask not the thing, but the maker
And look for a fragrance above all else

Seeking to find what ails a man

Ask not the patient looking to feel better
Not a black and white essence peddler
With snake oil and narcotic relief

Ask the doctor aiming to mend
With a knife to excise the rot
And venom to kill off the skunk

In itself, a thing is no thing
Only purpose gives meaning
And that is created, not craps

(Poetry Scales 87)