the voice provides its own resonance,

but receiving ears must choose to hear it.

gaze, however, is not auditory,

is not as heavy in its existence, as insistent

in its execution. gaze cannot be witnessed,

and sidles by, quick as blinking,

a quiet hiss against passing skin.

the words can be ignored, or can be heard,

can be reacted to or shrugged away;

but the watcher's eyes, the sweep 

of visual presence is almost more tangible--

almost. held culpable for every investigative eye

i find myself unworthy, judge myself guilty,

so that when the viewer gives a verdict

i am ready for the sentencing.