Playing Myself
A poem about finding representation through roleplay
Queer representation existed when I was growing up, but it was limited. Only certain sexualities, presented in a certain light.
I couldn't see myself in these depictions, so I obviously must be straight. Right?
In high school I started to roleplay on tumblr, first as modernized Disney characters and then as Marvel characters, and sometimes I headcanon them to be queer.
But that was just in the name of practicing diversity in my writing. Right?
In university, the person I might be in a relationship we haven't yet defined with gets me into a Dungeons and Dragons game with their friends. My first character is bisexual.
I play more characters in more tabletop roleplaying games. Almost all of them are queer.
And at some point, I realize...
Oh, this feels right.
About the Creator
Kelsey Clarey
She/Her/Fae/Faer. I live in Nova Scotia, Canada. I mostly write poetry and flash fiction currently, a lot of it fantasy/folklore/fairy tale inspired. I also like to do a lot of fiber arts and design TTRPGs.
https://linktr.ee/islanderscaper
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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Comments (19)
ongratulations on placing Kelsey! 🎉
You shared such a beautiful and honest feeling. This story is a great example of discovering and accepting yourself. Thank you for sharing your truth with us. It’s really inspiring. 🌈 — AbdulMasour
🩷 I'm hecka late lol but congratulations on placing Kelsey! 🎉
Oh that’s so good you found a way to be yourself. Thought this was brill.
Very interesting article
A beautiful journey of self-discovery and embracing identity. So relatable!
Nice
Congrats, belatedly, on this placing, Kelsey! like John i found it profoundly inspiring that you discovered the you that felt right through play and so often society is dismissive of that! even though play provides a safe way to try things, whether its sexuality related or another aspect of our lives! beautiful writing!
Congrats! 🏆
Wooohooooo congratulations on your win! 🎉💖🎊🎉💖🎊
What a creative way to know yourself in different stages of your life. Thanks for sharing.
Great set of words for the challenge
wow amazingly written
Awww, I'm so glad you found yourself 🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰
Loved this so much! The freedom games like that provide and the lessons about ourselves! 🩷 'feels right' is right! 🩷
What I love most about this poem, Kelsey, is that your process of discovery was through play. Why is the world so insistent on taking the fun out of life and learning?
That last line gosh.. it just feels RIGHT!
Playing roles is part of life. When the stage lights blind our eyes, we realize the duty, the duty of the quality of a good actor. Ηappy to read you!
An epiphany! I love the way you got to this! Read really truely.