The world tells us to smile, When all we want to do is cry The world tells us to move on When all we need is a halt The world tells us to guard up When vulnerable is all we want to be The world tells us to keept it in When we want to do is scream
We wear a mask, One that portrays the opposite of what we truly are. In a locker room of dozens, In a class of many Our names are sung with praises Yet we remain unknown and alone.
When to be soft or hard, Evil or good Strong or weak Kind or cruel Is never clear.
We are backed in a corner, That the slightest resistance to fall in order, Puts us in societal ridicule and gender dilenma This same society says 'its okay' But is appalled when we act like it is When we do what makes us safe and sane They call us toxic And in all honesty It is.
—Israel Olorunnisola
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Quick Note
I wrote this as a brief response and exploration of masculinity. I think we are in a time when gender lines are being blurred. And while it is a good thing for some, for others this evolution comes with more confusion than clarity.
1. Also did you catch the EUPHORIA reference in the title. And have you noticed the EUPHORIA design in the cover of this book?
