Split Poem by Paul Brookes

Walking between worlds,
the public and the private.
wondering if they know
the pretence is overwhelming.

being human and not
if they don't know you're fine,
if the do ah, then you are untouchable,
unspeakable, the invisible, other.

oh yes my white skin protects me,
protects me form the worst.
a privilege I could do without
because the outer cover protects
like a suit of shiny armour.
a mask of falsity to play upon the stage.

if only the knew what lay beneath the wrapping
a Dalit.

then take this and run with it,
it's time for pride.
time to face reality and step into both worlds
feet firmly planted.

yes, walking between two worlds is never easy,
there is no convergence, that you fit in neither,
acceptance of self in the only answer.