Do You Know Me

a poem by Sudarshan Madhav Karhale

Walking alone on the solitary path of unknown life,
even though
having you on my good side-
does it really matter?

I am still cold,
no warmth can I hold;
my ugly face masks no emotion-
do you feel any overwhelming notion?

My black hair trimmed short
of pride and popularity;
no cloudiness in my thoughts-
a distinct clarity.

My selfless attitude has been
surpassed by endless ambitions;
entrapped is a soft heart to rot
in the rusty cage of worldly traditions.

Sharing formal smiles with each other,
we continue moving on the tiresome journey forever;
as the turning point arrives,
you part ways with whom you understood as me-
I am left wondering and thinking–
do you even know me?