s that presents a countercultural perspective of an authentic life. It follows the trajectory of the interior journey to the source of our being. Authenticity is an expression of the salient characteristics of authentic living, which from the perspective of the poet is a life aligned to that of our creator. The traits of independence and self-reliance give way to vulnerability and dependence. Egotism is cast off and replaced with a spirit of generosity. Authenticity highlights values that go against the grain of those cherished in our society and culture and lead to the wholeness for which we were made.