Hola! This poem is part of my Ars Poetica – BlogchatterA2Z 2025 series, where I explore the art of poetry through 26 stanzas, each beginning with a different letter of the alphabet. Every day, a new stanza unfolds, building upon the previous ones intuitively and organically. If you’re just joining in, feel free to read from the beginning or simply dive into today’s reflection on poetry.
Stanza 16 of the Ars Poetica—Pretend or Play Honest?
Perhaps I’m most honest when I pretend—
donning voices that aren’t mine.
A mother’s muttered truth,
a friend’s seductive romance,
a long-lost lover’s longing.
Behind each mask, I breathe a little freer,
unburdened by the heaviness of being me.
Is it a lie I sell—
or just the human fear of laying myself bare?
What if I put myself out there—
Naked
A buffet for others to taste, savour, or discard.
Would that make me brave—
or a fool before a speeding train?
Maybe truth isn’t always raw exposure.
Maybe the truest things I say
arrive when I sign it off
in someone else’s name.
(to be continued...)
“I’m participating in #BlogchatterA2Z“.
This stanza really captures the paradox of poetic truth—how sometimes we’re most authentic when we’re not speaking as ourselves. That idea of masks offering freedom, rather than concealment, resonated deeply. It’s a beautiful reflection on how vulnerability can take many forms in art.
Thank you so much! I’m so glad that idea resonated with you. Art really does show us that vulnerability can take many different shapes. Appreciate your thoughtful words!
This is a great poem reflecting on the societal pressure and standards that are forced on to someone. I agree. Though honesty is always the route to go, Sometimes, we are forced to pretend so as not to invite trouble.
Thank you, Rehana! I completely agree—while vulnerability and honesty are important, sometimes a bit of pretend play becomes necessary for self-preservation. I really appreciate you stopping by and sharing your thoughts! 🙂