“Lost in the Abyss: Discover the Surreal Depths of Roy Pullam’s ‘On Quicksand'”

"Lost in the Abyss: Discover the Surreal Depths of Roy Pullam's 'On Quicksand'"

In the intricate tapestry of adolescence, many of us find ourselves grappling with identities that just don’t seem to fit—or worse, trying on masks that suffocate the essence of who we are. This poignant poem captures that struggle beautifully, inviting us to delve into the shadows of youth marred by insecurity and the relentless pursuit of acceptance. Have you ever felt like a misfit in your own skin, teetering on the edge of visibility while desperately blending into the background? The imagery here paints a vivid picture of a boy contorting himself into a “suit too small,” a metaphor that resonates deeply for anyone who’s ever wrestled with self-doubt and societal expectations. It’s a reminder of the burdens we carry in search of belonging, all while battling the haunting question: Who are we, really? As we explore this piece, let’s reflect on the mysteries of self-discovery and the riddles of identity that linger long after the teenage years have faded. Ready to dive in? Click here to LEARN MORE.

I hid
In the shadow
Of my blemished youth
Unable
To determine
What I should be
What would
Get me the acceptance
I so longed for
Bending with the wind
In order
To find my way
In the flood
Of adolescence
Seeking to defy radar
Be a ghost
That came and went
With whatever fad
It was miserable
Twisting myself
In a suit
Too small
Or one
That swallowed me
Trying to not split
The seams
Trying to hold
Up to an image
Too big
For the boy
I found myself
To be
Conscious always
That pretense could fall
And others
Would see
Who I rejected
But did not know
Maybe even now
He remains a mystery
A riddle
That has no solution

Pages: 1 2

You May Have Missed