Growing up surrounded by women of color, I always felt isolated by the fact that my body was different from those of the beautiful women around me. This poem was my moment of solidarity; my body is no one’s but my own and I don’t need anyone else’s approval.
In the Eye of the Beholder
Can you see your beauty when the world doesn't?
Our collection, "In the Eye of the Beholder, " offers a resounding yes. In these intimate works of prose and poetry, our writers embrace what others may call flaws, claiming beauty as their own internal and personal birthright.
COLLECTION CURATED BY MORAYO FALEYIMU. FEATURED ART DESIGNED BY KATHRYN DESTIN.
Scars
Acne is not permanent; it will go away eventually. But there are also scars that can’t go away—they stay with you forever. In my piece, I decided to elaborate on this concept by explaining that not all scars can disappear, but we have the opportunity to embrace them, love ourselves for who we are as human beings, and not let society dictate our beauty.
Unleashing My Inner Monster
Beauty Standards. Body Image. Insecurities. Are our feelings even valid? With social media usage and promotional advertisements at an all-time high, it’s so easy to feel less than and isolated. But remember, you’re not alone.
Faces
“Faces” is about the way young women view themselves in a world that presents a single standard of beauty. These lyrics push back against those barriers and question the value systems from which they originate.
Monolid
This piece describes my experience growing up with beauty standards. It highlights my first encounter with eyelid tape and the contrast between East Asian and Western notions of beauty.
Note to Self
“Note to Self” is a poem that was written in the midst of a wave of high self-esteem that shows itself rarely. This is when the power of Melanin Beauty reveals itself unapologetically.
To The Ones With Skin As Dark And Beautiful As Night
“To The Ones With Skin As Dark And Beautiful As Night” comes from a time when I didn’t feel so confident. Lupita Nyong’o is a huge part of me realizing that I am beautiful as she took her place in history, and I soon took my own place in history.
I Find Myself in Blue Envy
This poem is about how I, as I teenager, express myself through my hair.