A Pearl's Protection - By: Sarah Ismail

The world is my oyster

The pearl i am

The pearl am, i

A sanctuary to slip away from the glare of society’s so‑called gaze and to elude from its shame

The world is my oyster she said

But I claimed the veil as my own

Is it shameful to look at yourself in a way others do

Is it frowned upon to change yourself in a way others do

Even when the change feels phenomenal

I found it hallowed, I found it new, pleasing

The world remains their oyster

So i changed in the defiance of others

I endured in spite of others

I am pleased behind a facade

One so meticulous you can't define it

The world is my oyster i said

However i mourn the lack of adequate to be the pearl

The shining pearl, protected from the habitual pressure and

the suffocating air of proprieties

The world is my oyster

The veil is mine

The pearl i am

The pearl, am i

Please give a detailed explanation about the meaning and main idea of this poem.

It's a poem that explores the detail of different appearances. How others or myself are influenced to change ourselves for the like. However it's considered shameful to shift yourself based on this reason, so the poem shows the intensity of protection coming from the world from one's perspective or a simple piece of clothing such as the veil for another.

Please explain your writing and thought process regarding this poem.

It was to first pick a topic that will be the best presentation of my recent life. Then to repeat a certain line to make sure the audience would know to pay attention to that detail. I journaled a bit before the actual version to explore different ways of expressing myself. Then i thought of the first and closing line both who will be the center of attention.

Why did you choose to write this poem?

Well, it was to express myself. I don't always know how I feel so poems are a way for me not only to believe when I see it but to confirm I'm feeling it.

Do you have any tips or anything to share with the youth writers who may be reading this?

For me a poem is always not to overthink

There is no wrong if poetry is just a way write

A way to express, in a language or code only you will fully understand.

Like i do