Iterations Of Me

Image created by Dalle-3 AI

Part of my writing process is my permission to allow myself to be vulnerable because I find within that vulnerability a creative crucible that allows me to write with a profoundness that is real. It does not mean that I am sad or troubled in my life now. It is just my way to step behind that veil and touch the visceral parts of my psyche: it allows me to be real. With that said — here is a wee bit of free-verse poetry.

Iterations of Me

You see me, but you don’t know me,

You see the façade, the masks I wear,

The personas I wish to share.

The colors,

The confidence,

The boldness.

You see the survivor, the warrior,

The stiff-backed, attaboy lad,

But you don’t see me!

You don’t see the softness,

For I fear to show weakness,

This world is not for the meek,

For those who turn the other cheek!

I stand tall, challenge them all.

You don’t see the meek little boy,

The scared little boy,

You don’t see his hidden disabilities,

You don’t see the abused, the accused,

The black sheep, the family whipping boy.

No — You see a mask — the mask of my choosing.

For that is my power, my agency, my choice!

The masks — the façade — they are my Cerberus,

Standing in the gap, guarding that meek little child,

The tender child who resides in the depths of my soul.

Do you know me now? Can you see behind the veil?

Can you see me now?

Paul Besso

AKA, Cypher Shadowbourne

June 18, 2024