Winter

Winter by Jean-Antoine Hudson

Who are you?
Who, who, 
Who, who,
Who are you? by The Who

You clasp a tattered shawl to your breast 
Barely concealing your treasure
Barely covering your dignity
Barely hiding your shame.

You ignore the seasonal chill
Are you on the run?
Are you in a hurry?
Are you a thief?

You flee like a long-incarcerated hostage
Were you exploited?
Were you a captive?
Were you afraid?




You think (think) think (think) think about it
You better think (think) think about what you're trying to do to me
Think by Aretha Franklin

You don't know me or my story
You have too many questions
You are not my judge and jury.

Do not make assumptions based on your narrow view
Do not think that I am a distressed damsel to rescue
Do not judge people by the covers of their books.

My life is not in an Ivory tower nor an echo chamber
My clothes are of no consequence to you    
My life is my own. Keep your nose out.

What I've become is not who I am.

Anyone 
is 
“Just because”.

I am what I am.
I don't want praise, I don't want pity.
Your life is a sham till you can shout out
"I am what I am"
 I Am What I Am by Gloria Gayner
Copyright © | Year Posted 2022

Poem

Post Comments

Poetrysoup is an environment of encouragement and growth so only provide specific positive comments that indicate what you appreciate about the poem. Negative comments will result your account being banned.

Please Login to post a comment

Be the first to comment on this poem. Encourage this poet.

Get a Premium Membership
Turn off ads, get more exposure for your poetry, and get more features with a Premium Membership.
Book: Diverse Voices: The Poetry of Human Rights and the Pursuit of Peace