The Double Life

At the top of the stairs is a locked room
My secret chamber that no outsider views
For entry is forbidden prohibited
Behind this door is my other self

Not a picture in a frame nor a fresh disguise
But my other self, immobile inert and sanguine
My narcissus kisses exhale crimson breath
And pump ruby to the lip

I stand before myself not Jekyll nor Hyde
Not sibling nor twin separated at birth
I stand before myself unaccountable

I dreamt that I had feet of clay
I dreamt I crossed the seven seas
And when I woke not knowing
I knew I led the double life

All I ever needed is twice removed
I spit my bile in an airless temper
In this vacuum a vampire reversed
This one who breathes life into me

And even dull mirrors reflect the tarnished twosome
I stand before myself not another me
Not doppelganger nor witless clone
I stand before myself unrepentant

I dreamt of sin and aftermath
I dreamt of centuries laid bare
And when I woke not knowing
I knew I led the double life