What am I?

Am I that constant smile that’s pasted across my lips,

That lifts the corner of my eyes

Even if it doesn’t string the heart along?

What am I?

Am I that soft demur that I crumble into,

Despite that strong and brave façade

That’s out there for all to comment on?

What am I?

Am I that quiet strength,

That makes me stand unfrazzled

Despite every strong giggle that throws you off scent?

What am I?

Am I that silent dignity,

That hides from the world

Behind the constant spew of words that my mouth cannot hold?

What am I?

Am I there in those moments of madness,

That keeps me alive and safe

Away from searching eyes and wagging tongues?

Am I that silence behind the constant smile?

The dangerous quiet behind a mouth that moves incessantly

The deep crevices behind an otherwise shallow exterior

The head and heart in a cocoon, shrouded in bright colours

Am I, Am I, Am I….

What am I?

I am what I am

And I don’t need you to understand.