Manila
Vivian P.
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In my sophomore year English Honors class, we were given a poetry assignment with complete creative freedom. After struggling to decide on a meaningful topic, I chose to focus on my identity. As a third generation Asian American with a White dad, I have grown up feeling culturally disconnected and torn between my ethnic identities. My poem, which follows no specific form or structure yet is filled with literary devices and Filipino references, is a reflection on how my childhood trip to the Philippines impacted my view on my identity. It was a powerful, embracing experience, however I have since recognized a lingering bittersweet feeling of not truly belonging. Writing this poem was freeing to me as I do not usually open up about my conflicting biracial identity crisis. Going into the presentation I was terrified of showing my deepest vulnerability and being met with rejection and misunderstanding. However, reading the piece out loud to my class proved to be relieving and affirming. Writing and sharing Manila helped me to process this piece of my identity and reflect on its importance in my life.
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Expressing and exploring creativity provides me an artistic outlet and allows me to pour my soul into work that feels like an extension of myself. Sharing my writing feels like exposing a vulnerability, however in doing so I allow myself to be seen and understood.
