More than just my height
People see the size and get hype
And try make a comment that’s sly,
And I wonder why? Is it cos I’m a guy I should let it slide?
Cos I don’t think that’s right!
And I might not start a fight tonight, but I will think you’re a weirdo,
As you compare me to chocolate and say you want a bite,
Or when u ask “you know what they say about big feet” when I tell you my shoe size
So I’m sorry but it’s taken me all of my might, to tell you “no we can’t take a picture just because I’m 6 foot 9”
Benjamin’s poem explores sexual stereotyping and objectification, something the others at the workshop agree is a common experience.
“I was in a shop and a woman came up to me and took a picture of our feet together. A guy that she was with made a loud comment and said ‘if that’s how big his feet are imagine how big another part of his body is’. That made me feel, I would say objectified and uncomfortable,” Benjamin shared.
He outlined that putting this experience into a poem helped him release pent up emotions, and explained the importance of third spaces for men.
Benjamin – who performs as XVI – has been writing poetry for nearly two years and explains the necessity of spaces like this: “When I write a piece and perform it, it’s good because others can relate to it.
“It’s easier to share in an intimate group like this, it’s a safe space.
“Somewhere I can meet other black men who can relate to the same things and we all have a love for poetry,” he added.
