Famous Lines
“Pretty women wonder where my secret lies. / I’m not cute or built to suit a fashion model’s size”
The poem opens with the line, "Pretty women wonder where my secrets lie," immediately establishing a contrast between the speaker and the "pretty women." The speaker's presence intrigues these women, suggesting that she possesses something alluring beyond conventional beauty. The speaker further emphasizes this difference by stating, "I'm not cute or built to suit a fashion model's size." This line directly rejects the societal ideal of beauty often associated with "pretty women," characterized by specific features and body types. The speaker unapologetically acknowledges her nonconformity.
“They try so much / But they can’t touch / My inner mystery.”
This quote describes the elusive nature of the speaker's inner world. No matter how hard "they"—interpreted as admirers, critics, or anyone seeking to understand her—try to penetrate her exterior, they cannot fully grasp the depths of her being. It can also be seen as a celebration of individuality. The speaker acknowledges her unique essence is a "mystery" that cannot be easily categorized or fully understood by others.
“Now you understand / Just why my head’s not bowed. / I don’t shout or jump about / Or have to talk real loud.”
Here, the speaker directly addresses the reader, assuming they have been observing her throughout the poem. The line "Now you understand" suggests the reader may have initially questioned the source of her confidence, perhaps assuming it stemmed from external validation or outward displays like talking loudly. However, the speaker clarifies that her head is not bowed because her strength and value don't depend on those actions. She doesn't need to resort to loudness or boisterous behavior to be heard or command attention. This statement speaks to the power of inner strength and self-assurance. The speaker's confidence comes from within, and she doesn't need to rely on external validation or loud displays to feel powerful or worthy.
