(A proofreader's note regarding “cleave” and “cleave”)

Though looking no different, they stand far apart—

These two words that would add “c” to “leave.”

Their meanings inverse, contradicting each other,

Belie the simplicity of “cleave.”

For “cleave” is a contronym by definition,

Complexity built in at root.

With origins resting in two separate words,

The distinctions are not merely cute.

The basic disparities found in their senses

Most clearly are seen with the verbs.

The verb either means “to adhere” or “to split,”

With allowance for nuance as serves.

The first of the two says “to stick fast, adhere

To a person or thing or belief.”

While physical fastness is one well-known context,

“Unwavering loyalty” is chief.

The second one means “to divide or to part

By applying a physical blow,”

With shades of to “penetrate,” “separate,” “part”

In the other few senses to know.

As noun, the “word” cleave offers kinship to “split”:

“Subdivision,” a “basket,” a “surface”:

A basket designed as if split into sections;

And from cleaving, a surface with smoothness.

“A man should not only cleave unto his wife

But should likewise cleave unto his axe;

For having thus cleaved, every log he may cleave,

And his cleaving will be at a max.”