MackenzieFowler
Narrative Writer
Fearfully Brave
About
Poetic Form: Free Verse, Reverse Poetry
Iteration Number: 3
Year Written: 2017
Synopsis: The title of this poem is an oxymoron for a reason: this is a reverse poem. The initial read-through shows fear. However as you re-read the poem from the bottom up, the narrative changes into courage.
Fearfully Brave
I am afraid
You will never hear me say that
I am filled with courage
Because it is far from being true
My entire being constantly shakes with fear
Don’t believe them when they tell you
I have the strength to prevail
What is wrong with me?
Always cowering away from others
Hiding my face from glaring eyes
I’m done
It is time for me to admit what I already know
And let my true self show
I’m going to stop pretending to be strong
When I know that I’m not
I am a weak, cowardly girl
I keep saying that
My bravery is fiercer than a lion’s
It’s a lie
Want to know the truth?
I am afraid