How to know a man?

Though a part of him, he isn’t his CV; most aren’t what they say they are, seem they are; most don’t even ask themselves what they are.

I am not good, per se. I have wronged and been wronged. I have been shamed and separately felt shame. All only became clear on reflection.

I am not bad, per se. I have loved and been loved. I was born perilous. I have noticed the beauty of motes, the quintessence of life in ice or bad Venetian air, and the wonder of the world in every little complexity.

How to know a man, now?

What he does, then.

In work or out. Does he help? Whom has he helped? What groups? Why? What has he fought for? What does he fight for now?

What does he create? What doesn’t he?