Blush

Hereditary flush of humility

all eyes on you now

building intensity to participate

popular beliefs misunderstood embarrassment

Forced into an unfriendly world

taken from the peaceful place of observation

social conformity an awkward arousal

loud voices rise in fits of cruel laughter

how easy it must be to divert attention

safer to lie in criticism

then answer to the uncomfortable

Growing pains of the introvert

centre stage holds no allure

a preference to think first, speak second

scarlet red the identifying mark,

of the warmhearted soul

~ Camille Delaquise

This poem appears in Behind the Facade, Camille’s debut collection of contemporary poetry, which received critical acclaim upon its release.

It is also available as a contemporary art print, produced on textured recycled card.