avatarAnthi Psomiadou

Summary

The poem "My Lion-Voice" metaphorically describes the internal struggle of suppressing one's voice and the eventual liberation that comes with finding the courage to speak out.

Abstract

The poem "My Lion-Voice" by Anthi Psomiadou is a poignant piece that uses the metaphor of a lion's voice to explore the theme of self-expression and personal empowerment. The author likens the act of not standing up for oneself to caging a lion, leading to internal turmoil and restlessness. The voice, powerful and untamed, protests within, causing unrest until it is either muted by exhaustion or unleashed in a volcanic burst of courage. This eruption leads to a declaration of self, defeating cowardice and achieving a sense of freedom. However, the author aspires for a state where the voice can soar freely without needing to reach the point of a lion's roar, signifying a more proactive and peaceful form of self-expression.

Opinions

  • The author conveys a deep sense of frustration and discomfort that arises from suppressing one's true feelings and opinions.
  • There is a recognition that the act of silencing oneself can lead to an eventual explosive reaction, which is both unavoidable and potentially destructive.
  • The poem suggests that true liberation comes not from the loudest expression of voice but from the ability to express oneself freely and confidently before reaching a point of internal conflict.
  • The metaphor of the lion's voice symbolizes personal power and the right to be heard, emphasizing the importance of self-advocacy and assertiveness.
  • The author seems to believe in the transformative power of speaking up, viewing it as a victory over fear and a step towards complete self-realization.

My Lion-Voice

Until complete liberation

Image by prettysleepy1 from Pixabay

My voice becomes a lion in a cage when I don’t stand up for myself, when I swallow it, when I forget I’m brave.

It wildly moves inside my chest. It feels suppressed, I can’t get rest.

When it’s exhausted by protesting, it goes to the other “edge”, silently resting.

But even then, even when muted I feel its vibration. My blood is boiling in veins of asphyxiation.

And then, one day, the volcano explodes. The lion-voice comes out through my throat.

Exposed to the light, directed where needed, declares my point. Cowardness is defeated.

An almost-freedom this is. Full freedom will be when my voice will learn to soar before becoming a lion’s roar.

^^^

Anthi Psomiadou — CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International : Credit must be given to the creator/ Only noncommercial uses of the work are permitted/ No derivatives

Freedom
Self
Behavior
Poetry
Anthi Psomiadou
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