Answer:
I'm not really more than holes tied to more holes. I'm strong as good steel, though not as stiff as a pole.
What types of words are these: madam, civic, eye, level?
What flies without wings?
What does everyone know how to open but not how to close?
The ones who see it may go blind, Contracting the fool's madness. You have to dig to find it, Crush big stones or mine it. Wash dirt clumps in a pan and wait for it to settle, A shiny, precious metal.
I am the fountain from which no one can drink. For many I am considered a necessary link. Like gold to all I am sought for, but my continued death brings wealth for all to want more.