THE FOLLOWING POEM WAS SELECTED IN WINGWORD POETRY PRIZE 2023 LONGLIST.

In a world obsessed with beauty,

Where standards dictate what we see,

People often forget to see

The beauty that lies between you and me.

Magazines and TV screens, all show, an image of beauty,

we're expected to know.

Slim and tall, with perfect skin, No wrinkles or no acne, no extra chin.

Long luscious hair, and sparkling eyes,

A perfect nose, and lips of perfect size.

But who decided, what beauty should be?

Why can't we all, just be free?

Tall or short, thin or curvy,

Society's view is often blurry.

Photoshopped bodies on display,

Perfect skin, no flaws to betray,

but the real beauty lies within,

and loving yourself is where to begin.

So, let's break free from beauty's Mold,

embrace our uniqueness,

be bold,

for real beauty is not just skin,

It's the confidence that lies within.