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This poem was written at a time deep within the trenches of masking territory while I was failing to acclimatise to a new social environment. This was about a decade before my learning about my neurodivergence. At the…
Creative disclosure
- I write the poetry myself from my own experiences
- I do use AI to aid me with the musical aspect. I'm transparent about that and you can read more about the process I take here: shaypbops.substack.com/p/the-process-behind-my-songs
Is this really free?
Yes it is.
But if you love the music, the poetry, or the vibe and want to show support, you can always buy me a coffee. Though you're under no obligation, I certainly appreciate any and all such support 😊
About
This poem was written at a time deep within the trenches of masking territory while I was failing to acclimatise to a new social environment. This was about a decade before my learning about my neurodivergence. At the time, I lacked the vocabulary to express the frustration, though I do think what I’ve cobbled together here does capture the general sense, even if just a little.
On reflection, it’s probably safe to say that most people all mask to some extent. However, there is a distinction. Yes a great many ‘mask’ in the sense that they are self aware enough to censor themselves depending on their circle. That being said, not everybody is so broken between interactions that they need to have extended periods of rest, or create ornate systems of diagrams to understand what is expected of them. Not everybody is practising facial expressions, tone of voice, scripting how they might respond to something, or studying body language to hold the mask together. All of this to the extent that it inevitably and repeatedly breaks you. Not everyone knows what that feels like. I hope it resonates with those that do.