Hear My Voice

NYLAH HARRIS

I wanted to write a piece about society’s expectations and standards. It took me some time, but I feel it discusses some of the hardships that people fail to realize I experience as a young girl, part of Generation F.

I am a girl

Living in the roar of society.

Can you hear me?

I am submerged in the lights of the man.

They drown me with their controversies and outlooks.

I am beautiful.

No, you are cocky and arrogant.

I am ugly.

No, you are my damsel and I will rescue you.

I am expected to blow, suck, and swallow what society brings to me.

But I didn’t ask for that.

Why didn’t I get a second to figure out what I want?

Fear has change by the throat and man won’t lift a finger.

I am a girl

Learning to be a woman.

Do you see me?

Why won’t you see me?

Drowning in the future society wants for me.

Black is the solitude in which I choose to shame the cruelties.