My Glance Of Smile

Poet's note: The poem "My Glance of Smile" by Gilbert Sordebabari is a brief and enigmatic work that plays with the idea of appearances and the power of a smile. The poem is divided into several short stanzas that seem disconnected at first, but gradually reveal a deeper meaning as the reader considers the interplay between the lines. The first two lines of the poem set the stage for an exploration of the power of looks and appearances, asking whether a harmless glance during the day could become deadly at night. This suggests a kind of duality in human nature, where the same person or action can have different meanings depending on the context. The next stanza introduces the idea of the looking-glass mirror, which is typically used for self-reflection and self-awareness. However, in this poem, the mirror is asked to show not only reality but also the ways in which reality can be disguised or distorted by appearances. This emphasizes the theme of appearances and the idea that what we see is not always what we get. The third stanza introduces a "damsel on the lookout" who gives a blank stare. This suggests a sense of detachment or aloofness, as if the damsel is deliberately keeping her distance from the speaker. However, the next line suggests that the speaker's "glance of smile" is able to disarm her and prevent her from giving a "hostile glare." This suggests that the power of a smile can transcend appearances and create a sense of connection or warmth. The next two stanzas play with the idea of opposites, such as smile and frown, and how they can be intertwined or reversed. This suggests a sense of ambiguity or fluidity in human emotions and reactions, and the way that one action can have multiple meanings depending on the context. The final stanza brings the poem to a close by introducing the idea of the heart, which is often associated with emotions and feelings. The stanza suggests that the heart can be both a source of joy and misery, and that appearances can sometimes be deceptive. This reinforces the idea that what we see is not always what we get, and that the true nature of a person or situation may be hidden beneath the surface. Overall, "My Glance of Smile" is a brief but thought-provoking poem that plays with the idea of appearances and the power of a smile. Through its use of opposites, duality, and ambiguity, the poem invites the reader to consider the complex and multifaceted nature of human emotions and reactions, and the ways in which appearances can be deceiving.