Create a portrait where I smile while I weep

A Portrait of Tears and Smiles

Create a portrait where I smile while I weep,
Let sorrow be expressed, but not as a spectacle to keep.

No thread of dreams should tangle in these eyes,
No clear recognition, no face in disguise.

Create a portrait where I smile while I weep,
Let sorrow be shared, but no performance to reap.

If I am worthy, verify it with someone true,
Don’t comfort me if my solace feels untrue.

However strong your heart, leave it outside your chest,
So when it breaks, no ruins stay suppressed.

Let anyone live in my eyes on this one condition:
No dream should pave the way towards sleep's submission.

Whatever bond we share, let it belong to just you and me,
Even my bond with you shouldn't trap you in loyalty.

_________________________

Elucidating it

The poet begins by expressing a desire to showcase sorrow in a dignified way. He imagines a picture where he looks both happy and sad simultaneously. This is not to create drama or attract pity but to communicate genuine emotions without turning them into a spectacle. This reflects a maturity in handling pain and a desire for authenticity.

Next, the poet highlights the fragility of dreams. He wishes for no dreams to entangle in his eyes or distort his reality. Dreams are often beautiful but can sometimes lead to false hopes or distractions. The poet prefers clarity and honesty in his emotions and expressions, avoiding unnecessary illusions.

Moving to the concept of recognition, the poet yearns to escape the conventional identity attached to a face. He wishes to transcend beyond physical appearances and be understood for his inner self rather than superficial labels or features. This idea speaks to the depth of human individuality and the importance of looking beyond what meets the eye.

The poem also touches on the idea of validation. If the poet is deserving of support or recognition, he insists it must be confirmed by others and not given out of mere sympathy. He discourages false reassurances, believing that only sincere and earned comfort holds value.

The poet then delves into how we handle emotional pain. He advises keeping one’s heart metaphorically outside the body. This means allowing yourself to experience emotions freely but not letting pain consume or define you. If the heart breaks, it shouldn’t leave permanent damage, but rather, its pieces should be easily swept away to make room for new growth.

When discussing relationships, the poet sets boundaries. He desires that anyone who enters his life should not disturb his peace or misguide his dreams. There should be mutual respect, and no one should impose their ambitions or expectations on the other. The focus remains on maintaining individuality even within a bond.

Finally, the poet reflects on the nature of human connections. He emphasises that relationships should remain genuine and untainted. The poet desires a pure and authentic bond that does not impose unnecessary obligations or make anyone feel trapped. He believes in keeping relationships free of possessiveness or over-dependence.

The poem is essentially a guide to living with dignity, authenticity, and emotional clarity. It encourages balancing joy and sorrow, valuing meaningful connections, and maintaining individuality. It teaches that emotions, no matter how intense, should be shared thoughtfully and not displayed for validation. Similarly, relationships should be based on mutual respect and freedom, without compromising personal identity.

In simpler terms, the poem inspires us to live with sincerity, embrace our emotions with grace, and nurture relationships that are respectful and free of constraints. It invites us to seek truth in our feelings and connections, avoiding drama or falsehoods, and focusing on what truly matters. This is a profound message for anyone navigating the complexities of life and love.