The Ages of Man

The official form asks for my age, Demands I write it on the page. I puzzle long to brain engage. Is that my age? Fifty winters past, emerged From womb by strong contractions purged And midwives encouraging, urged. Is that my age? Proteins form and cells decay Some last a week, some fade today. Their passing causes no dismay. Is that my age? My present "I" became just now, And vanished 'ere it wrinkled brow. My "I" has changed you must allow. Is that my age? Within my living frame and cell Are metals from star's fiery hell, Some billion years have past as well. Is that my age? The being that thinks this thought By many teachers it is taught Has earlier lives within it, caught. Is that my age? As adolescence moves me on From child to adult I become, The father now formed from the son. Is that my age? And "I" am just a blank abstraction, Drawn to be by mental traction Existing not for merest fraction. Is that my age?