round drain in a square sink
a poem about the spaces we (as women) are, both, granted and denied.
it’s no secret that the world has been designed by men, for men. but rarely are we offered a glimpse into the nuance of what that really means for our everyday routine.
inspired by the photos below, found during my nightly Pinterest scroll, this poem sheds a light on the burdens of womanhood and the privilege men hold in the ability to turn a blind eye to them. “round drain in a square sink” showcases a unique perspective on the spaces we (females / femmes) occupy that were never made for us.
round drain in a square sink
by riley rae
~
my hairbrush blocked the drain.
my coffee cup rested daringly close to the edge.
I tried to wipe the lipstick smudged on the surface and my purse got caught on the faucet.
in the pocket of space allotted
to rest all of what it means to show up as a woman,
I knew immediately that the sink was designed by a man.
forced to move with a swiftness
so not to disturb the peace,
I observed the delicate balancing act that is everything I am,
laid carefully out in front of me.
I questioned whether all of it was really necessary to hold onto,
while his toothbrush watched.
I could condense, of course.
why force room for things that don’t quite fit?
I could tell myself it was for me,
for the comfort of knowing that I wouldn’t have to worry about the aftermath of knocking something over.
until I remembered: the sink was never mine.
what desire would he have for extra space when the sink offers all he needs?
I watched my mascara roll onto the floor, just missing his dirty clothes as it stained my brand new makeup bag,
knowing nothing will compel him to consider
what he’s never been conditioned to carry.
Thank you for reading. As always, feel free to leave your thoughts, share this with someone you think would enjoy it, and/or subscribe for more thoughts like these!
XO
~ Riley <3
“As his toothbrush watched”…….I’m astonished at how beautifully this poem captured the reality of living as a woman in a man’s world. Wonderful writing.
This is a tiny bit stereotypical--men are not all slobs. Additionally, though the poetry is good as is, I would say that a lot more figurative language can be imbued here.