Identity

I often find myself adopting the views of those around me instead of holding my own opinion. This fickleness is a trait I dislike in myself.

“This is who I am” they say

But how do they know?

Such finality and assuredness

When all I feel is doubt

 

How do I feel?

Who am I, really?

Such a cliché

I feel decidedly silly

 

But, in truth, I wonder

What makes me, me?

Can I be special?

I feel so ordinary

 

People may ask

Tell me about yourself

Then inside I go blank

My mind an empty shelf

 

For I have nothing to share

No facts to tickle and tease

My personality I change

To suit any need

 

Don’t rock the boat

The peace you can save

Don’t feel any way but theirs

I’ve learned from a young age

 

But now I am so busy

Placating and pleasing

I don’t know how to be happy

And still peace is fleeting

 

I vow to speak up

And share my mind

Learn who I am

And still be kind

 

It’s not impossible

Though a rare creed

Be bold and be true

I will succeed

Author's Note

Please critique and review. I am trying to improve! :)

Reviews

[psilopro]

This spoke to me. I like some of the patterns you follow, like how the first three stanzas all have a question as the second line, and how 'tickle and tease' and 'placating and pleasing' feel like they play off of each other. Words like 'assuredness' and 'personality' tend to have a bit more of a scientific than poetic feel, but that can work in some cases. Good job rhyming.

[Ellie_the_Traveler]

Thank you for the feedback! I do tend towards a colder analytical way of thinking/speaking so I know what you mean about the scientific word choice. I really want to become more artistic with my poems so thank you for pointing out the words in specific that don't feel poetic. I really appreciate your review.