Expression

There are so many thoughts I would like to express

But I am afraid, I’ve learnt to suppress

My true thoughts and say only what is expected of me

I have no desire to invite criticism unnecessary 

I don’t want to be viewed as an iconoclast

I definitely don’t want to be a social outcast..

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I confess I carry thoughts inside me that feel 

Contrary to what society accepts, that reveal

A preference for things outside social norms

But when I express myself, for the society I perform

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It makes me sad to realize that I might never find

The courage to express what truly is in my mind

My thoughts and ideas I don’t want to take to the grave

In an internal monologue my most unorthodox ideas I save

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The need to express myself is an existential one

I can do that in writing, that is seen by no one

I am not looking to change the world nor change any minds

I simply want to resolve the constant confusion in my mind

Between my independent ideas and what I’ve been taught 

This is a battle that only through expression can be fought

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So let me take a few moments to write about

Something that has caused me consternation throughout

Maybe I shall discover a perspective new

Maybe I shall find middle ground too