Time to Lose the Mask: Jungian Persona Poetry & Analysis

Masquerading Image- Created by Marilyn Glover with Canva Design

 Time to Lose the Mask: Reading and Analysis of Masquerading from Shadow's Reprieve

A mask worn as decorative art is fun and celebratory. Glitter, sequins, and fancy embellishments provide the wearer a temporary escape from day-to-day reality while attending an event such as a masquerade. But what about when the music stops, the cheering and dancing end, and the return to everyday life ensues? Does the skin breathe freely, or does a different type of mask restrict all natural movement? 

This week, I continue reading from Part One, "The Persona," of my debut Jungian-themed poetry chapbook, Shadow's Reprieve.

Jung's persona

According to Carl Jung, the mask is the Persona. It's the social face we show the world to cover our true, authentic identity.

• A social shield
• A compromise
• An actor's role

The social shield is a public personality, protecting one from judgment.

The compromise balances who one truly is with societal expectations.

The actor's role changes depending on the environment: family, work, friends.

The mask requires balance.

Which one to wear? When? Where?

Fitting in, conforming equals performing, but when does one finally decide to lose the mask and show their true face?

A dangerous task, to wear this mask. 
Wear it so long,
too long,
one might forget their oneness.

I invite you to read along and listen to Masquerading for free on my Substack

Author's screenshot

Masquerading- poem excerpt

Rite of passage; playful movement
Her secret identity
Vizard: gold; matches her attire
Fantasy

Guessing games; who is who
Impersonation
Blurring classes; rigid norms
Parading
She dazzles
Applauding
Escapism

Personal unveiling

I've struggled with my mask since childhood, the age of 9 to be precise. Writing is my art and the reunion I afforded myself in my late 40s. This week's podcast episode was not without issues; a few audio bobbles left me feeling frustrated, so I did a couple of re-recordings. The newer versions were basically the same, unlike my first two weeks of publishing, but I decided to release my not-so-perfect audio into the world to demonstrate my willingness to be vulnerable and accept a situation as is. 

Of course, I will work on the recording issues, but the point is I set my 'perfection' mask aside and showed up simply as me.

Reflection: Is it time to lose your mask?

Might it be time to question if you are disguising your true, authentic self to conform in work, family, and other social settings?

Doesn't the mask feel heavy, weighted by time?

Don't you wish you could simply be you?

How will you know unless you try?

Lose the mask, find yourself!

Join me next week as I continue reading from Shadow's Reprieve. Next poem: Fantasy Fathoming.

Until then, take care of your inner world.