The Mask of Normality
For the Masks We Wear Challenge
Harden this smile upon my face
Paint the color in my cheeks
Add the sparkle to my eyes
That behind this mask
Comes from tears, not life
And hide from the world
The depths of my grief
Convince them that I am strong
And only let the mask slip
When I am alone so that they won’t see
How broken my heart truly is
How my head dips and swims
As I try to orient myself
In my new life
With the hole in me
That I cover with my mask of normality
The mask that suffocates me
That I long to rip off
So that I can show that I am human, too
And live my grief
About the Creator
Stephanie Hoogstad
With a BA in English and MSc in Creative Writing, writing is my life. I have edited and ghost written for years with some published stories and poems of my own.
Learn more about me: thewritersscrapbin.com
Support my writing: Patreon
Reader insights
Outstanding
Excellent work. Looking forward to reading more!
Top insights
Compelling and original writing
Creative use of language & vocab
Excellent storytelling
Original narrative & well developed characters
Heartfelt and relatable
The story invoked strong personal emotions
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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 Vocal7 days ago in Resources
Comments (5)
So relatable. Sooner or later, we all wear that mask.
First off. hugs! Second, this is exquisite! heartbreaking, but honest beautiful and relatable! that title and the poem perfectly sums up life immediatly after a bereavement! i think the progression from the reality of hiding to the desire to live in grief is something we all fear! like KD, i think this is a winner! sublime writing, Stephanie!
You win! 🏆
Beautiful and relatable 💜
We do try to wear that mask of strength when we are weak. A beautiful, strong poem, Stephanie.