Parents name their child
While writing the beginning,
The formative chapters,
Of his biography .
They’re his.
He’s theirs.
The ability to name
Comes from authority
And power.
Friends give each other nicknames,
While writing
One another’s biographies.
Lovers give each other pet names,
While writing
One another’s biographies.
The ability to name
Comes from
Mutual reciprocal influence.
To name is to control
Whether by gentle
Good natured sheepdog
Or harsh menacing wolf.
Whether by healing forceps
Or murderous dagger.