emergence

Over the years, living under systems that demand conformity and erasure, I’ve often felt the weight of shrinking myself to fit into spaces that weren’t made for me. This particular poem emerged during a moment of reflection on what it means to survive by becoming small and the toll it takes on the spirit. It was inspired by conversations with others who’ve lived similar experiences—carrying the quiet tension of hiding who they are to stay safe.

This piece explores the slow burn of buried truths and the moment when that fire, coiled tight for so long, finally breaks free. The imagery of fire symbolizes resilience and the raw, uncontainable force of reclaiming one’s identity. It’s a journey from survival to transformation, asking what it means to step into the fullness of ourselves after years of suppression.

I’d love to hear how this poem resonated with you and what emotions it sparked as you reflected on it.

Text within this block will maintain its original spacing when publishedemergence

beneath layers of
silence
and
skin,
a fire
coiled tight,
tempered
by years, the
weight
of
hiding,
folding,
becoming
small—
until it breaks
open, fierce
and
clear,
no longer shaped
by
survival’s
need,
but by the
raw truth
of
itself.