How to create a character flaw...
Part of the Lost Little Series by Sam Harty
This is a poem I wrote when I was a teenager. It's been re-written a few times since I hit adulthood but it's basically just about the same as when I was 13. It's definitely something that may or may not speak to all girls of all ages everywhere.
ONE CAN ONLY BE TOLD
act humble.
stay silent.
dress pretty.
don't frown.
BEFORE WANTING TO BE
totally invisible.
permanently mute.
hallmark like.
someone else.
AND SO OFTEN FEELING
I should try to be unseen.
I should watch my every word.
I should always look perfect.
I should smile even when in pain.
AFTER AWHILE IT'S LIKE
I learn to hide myself in plain sight.
Songs speak the words I'd never say.
Food never stays inside me for long.
Just let me get through another day.
About the Creator
ᔕᗩᗰ ᕼᗩᖇTY
Sam Harty is a poet of raw truth and quiet rebellion. Author of Lost Love Volumes I & II and The Lost Little Series, her work confronts heartbreak, trauma, and survival with fierce honesty and lyrical depth. Where to find me
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📢 Raise Your Voice Thread: 01/08/2026
Our “Raise Your Voice Threads” are hosted most alternating Thursdays at 12PM ET to offer creators more avenues to uncover exceptional stories on Vocal. As we are continuously searching for fresh creators and inspiring stories, this thread provides an opportunity to exchange and discuss the stories that have moved and motivated us on Vocal.
By Raise Your Voice by Vocal4 days ago in Resources
Comments (3)
Oh my word, was this full of so much pain and sad truth. Wow, this hit home. Wonderful writing :)
This is powerful and beautiful. I agree with Caitlin the last four lines are so hard hitting. Would you be okay with us linking this in the other post so we can get a list going?
I wasn’t prepared for the last four lines, you would’ve had to dig within the deepest parts of yourself to write something so accurate, portraying so vividly the disconcerting feelings that comes about through the expectations held over our heads. Which couldn't have been easy, so thank you for sharing this with us. Every line you wrote, I felt it.