The Mask I Wear
So much is bottled within me –
Struggling to erupt, forcing to be free;
So much I hold with clenched teeth –
Screaming it out would liberate me.
Why is it that I cannot break free
From the shackles that bind me?
Am I a prisoner of my own thoughts?
I am breaking within, let me out.
What is it that chokes my voice –
Bottling my tears in a tight vial?
Why does my face seem like a mask –
Hiding what is behind to unmask?
Why can’t I beat the fear engulfing me –
To allow people to look inside me:
Am I afraid they will not accept me –
Ridiculing the weakness they see in me!
If only I can shout it all out aloud –
Open the doors and let it all out;
Pull the mask off my vulnerable soul:
From the fragility strength will emerge.
Shuvashree Chowdhury 