The author

Unlike normal people of my age,
I am robotic.
Controlled
And characterized in order to meet
Certain standards.
Everything I do must please everyone.

If I speak, I should not be heard.
If I laugh, I should not make a sound.
I show talent, it’s showing off
I show skin, it’s “paumuku”
Trying to speak for myself? It’s disobedience.

Do this. Don’t do that.
Wear this. Don’t wear that.
You’re too slow. Or you’re too fast.
Be confident but not bold.
Be like her but not like the latter.
And smile. They’re always looking.

Everyone has stories to tell.
Well mine, is not self-written.
I am a product of
Borrowed confidence.
Fake smiles.
Great comparisons.
And more.

If I do get to add a line
In my own story, it
Would be
“I am not the author”.


Isalei.