When I Call Myself Queer

Summary

The poem "When I Call Myself Queer" by Esther Jones celebrates the multifaceted nature of queer identity, portraying it as unique, creative, and a source of wonder and self-expression.

Abstract

"When I Call Myself Queer" is a lyrical exploration of queer identity, where the poet, Esther Jones, uses vivid imagery and metaphor to convey the complexity and beauty of being queer. The poem describes queerness as something that defies norms and expectations, characterized by uniqueness and surprise. It is portrayed as a craft, akin to creating something new and unexpected, like finding a surprise in a mundane box of cereal. The poet likens queer identity to natural phenomena such as the northern lights and the parhelion, emphasizing its wonder and rarity. Esther Jones, who identifies as a queer Christian poet, shares her personal connection to her craft, suggesting that her identity informs her art and music. The poem invites readers to appreciate the joy and cheer that queerness brings, while also acknowledging the fear and misunderstanding it often faces. The author's request for support through a "buy me a coffee" link indicates a desire for community engagement and appreciation for her work.

Opinions

The poet views queerness as a source of pride and positivity, challenging conventional notions of normalcy.
Queer identity is presented as an art form, involving the creative reimagining of existing elements into something new.
The poem suggests that queerness can evoke both fear and wonder, reflecting societal reactions to what is different or less understood.
Esther Jones aligns her queer identity with her Christian faith, suggesting an intersectionality that shapes her poetry.
The author's invitation for support implies a belief in the value of her work and a wish for reader investment in her creative endeavors.

A Poem

I am not normal, I am not regular; I am different, unusual, distorted, awry; I’m the movement you catch at the edge of your eye; I am something to fear. That’s what I mean when I call myself queer.

I am unique, amazing, and odd; I am special, bizarre, astonishing, rare; I’m the shadow at twilight when nothing is there; I am here. That’s what I mean when I call myself queer.

I am a crafter, stealing bits from those who came before; I make something new from what I take; I’m the surprise in a box of bran flakes; I am cheer. That’s what I mean when I call myself queer.

I am curious, surprising, and strange; I’m the aurora borealis, the northern lights; I’m the parhelion dogging the sun, faded rainbow of ice; I am weird. That’s what I mean when I call myself queer.

Esther learned to read when she was four years old, and began writing shortly thereafter. She is a queer Christian poet, crafting with words to create art and music.