A Personal Branding Lament (in verse)

They say I need a personal brand

And should be able to concoct one on demand

But doesn't that just mean

What I want the world to glean

Is a polished veneer of what I say I want to manifest?

Maybe I just want to be my best

With alacrity, panache, and zest

Just like all the rest?

How frustrated I am by this thorny request

Perception over reality

Looking good as the finality

I just want to be met where I am

Even less than a radiant gem

Bereft of the jester’s playful attire

From that I can only retire

Leaving to my inner brokenness to inspire

Only then—and only then

Can I tiptoe across the wire

Building what is

And what might be

Something all can see