He was arrogant, self-centered,
manipulative, demanding,
and utterly, flawlessly charming.

These things can’t exist
in a vacuum.

He was propped up
by admiration,
adoration,
from those who worshiped
his beauty.

He cared not a jot for any of them.
He was far too absorbed by himself.
No one could pull on his heartstrings.

Beauty brings love
to those of no virtue,
and youth is admired
above wisdom and age.

Photographed, interviewed,
followed and praised,
his face filled the magazines.

With no special talent, he faded.
No one remembered his name.
His body was found
in a cold empty room.
He had covered the mirrors
with pages
torn from the old magazines.

Outside the window
a narcissus bloomed,
a symbol of sunshine and spring.
Cupping the sunlight
they may last a week.
They never last longer than that.