Shakespeare’s fools
most often seem to say
the wisest things.

so i ponder the measure of my greatness
whether born, achieved, or thrown
into foolishness
or very common sense,
as i lack wit
and am not witty.

cleverer still
the trick of the pen
quick like a sword
empty and dry
leaving me defenseless against the page…
though winning
may put courage in me.

i dare not say whether
i be foolish or wise
for a fool thinks wise,
but the wise knows
fool.