26: Oh Forehead, Oh Eyelid, Oh Hip...

Libby Kurz

Publication Date

4-26-2022

Document Type

Poetry Prompt

Poetry Prompt

In the poem “Triple Sonnet for my Aggressive Forehead,” poet Dorothy Chan examines one of her most prominent and historically problematic facial features. Through the lens of this physical attribute, she explores and challenges deeper issues of personal identity, race, sexuality, and gender norms, ending with a final declaration: “I’m checking off/ forehead as my favorite body part.”

Looking to Chan’s work for inspiration, write your own poem about a facial feature or body part of personal significance or scrutiny. What metaphors develop from this body part? What stories or memories does this feature hold for you? How do you feel about this aspect of yourself and what the world says about it? Is your final declaration one of rejection or acceptance, and why?

This document is currently not available here.

Share

COinS