The Outer -- from the Inner

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The Outer -- from the Inner
Derives its Magnitude --
'Tis Duke, or Dwarf, according
As is the Central Mood --

The fine -- unvarying Axis
That regulates the Wheel --
Though Spokes -- spin -- more conspicuous
And fling a dust -- the while.

The Inner -- paints the Outer --
The Brush without the Hand --
Its Picture publishes -- precise --
As is the inner Brand --

On fine -- Arterial Canvas --
A Cheek -- perchance a Brow --
The Star's whole Secret -- in the Lake --
Eyes were not meant to know.

© Emily Dickinson