Vision Test

The brain, like the earth, lies in layers.

Floaters dart and punch. I see the field.

My face stays numb. Keep your eye on the target.

Click the button when a light appears.

Last night I read “So little evidence is left

of what had vanished.” I can’t always follow directions.

The tumor pressed a lobe, charging

the amygdala, emotional core of the self.

In school they taught us that soil covers core

and mantle; mythology explains creation

and change. Now age drapes childhood;

my hair, the incision. I see a light but forget

to click. I didn’t remember dreams for a year.

How I’ve changed may not be apparent.