Words can be like knives –
slashing
and cutting.

Words can be like roses –
beautiful
but prickly.

Words can be like ice cream –
sweet
but cold.

Words can be like sparrows –
chirping and cheerful
yet without substance.

Words can be like coals –
they are meant to give warmth
but if you get too close
they char your skin
and burn you to the bone.

Words are like water –
they may soothe you
or drown you.

Words are like earth –
they may be harsh and dry
yet infinitely fertile.

Words are like fish –
beautiful in their element
yet stink
when taken out of context.

Words are like you.
They reveal who you are
in all of your beauty
and in all of your ugliness.