Paralyzed

Contemporary / Modern Poetry Human Written by Marie Bare · Oct 08, 2026

I’m struggling to stand on my own two legs.

I’m struggling to spell the word “me”
as it’s been the only thing I’ve talked about.

I’m struggling to help those in need of help
without mentioning the word “me”

I’m struggling to talk to the person I love the most.

I’m struggling to want to take a shower every night.

I’m struggling to have the want to study for a test
that I know I’ll fail if I don’t.

I’m struggling to have the want to go to dance.

the need for dance.

i’m struggling to make an effort to survive.

“Don’t you mean live?”

no.

About This Poem

The experience into depression happening in real time, even though the daily things, like studying, are starting to become a challenge.

How did this poem make you feel?

Community Score

10.0

out of 10

1 vote

Optional AI-generated literary feedback.

Poem Analysis

This analysis is provided as optional literary feedback. Community voting remains the primary ranking method.

Analysis Available

The poem captures a raw and intimate portrayal of personal struggle and existential questioning. Through its candid language and repetition, it effectively conveys a sense of vulnerability and introspection, though it lacks in sophisticated imagery and structural innovation.

Strengths

The repetition of 'I'm struggling' effectively emphasizes the speaker's ongoing battle with daily life (lines 1, 3, 5, 7, 9, 11, 13, 15).
The poem's conversational tone, especially in the dialogue, adds a layer of authenticity and relatability (lines 17-18).
The poem's focus on mundane tasks like taking a shower and studying makes the struggle feel universal and relatable (lines 7, 11).

Areas for Improvement

The poem lacks vivid imagery and sensory details, which could enhance its emotional impact (e.g., lines 1-15).
The structure is somewhat monotonous, as the repetition of 'I'm struggling' without variation can become predictable.

Imagery

The poem is sparse in its use of imagery, relying more on straightforward statements of struggle rather than painting vivid pictures. The absence of metaphors or similes means the reader is told about the struggle rather than shown, which limits the sensory engagement.

Structure

The poem is free verse with no discernible meter or rhyme scheme, relying heavily on repetition for structure. The consistent use of 'I'm struggling' at the beginning of most lines creates a rhythmic but predictable pattern. The single dialogue line breaks this pattern, offering a momentary shift in focus.

Language & Craft

The diction is simple and direct, reflecting the speaker's candid and unfiltered emotional state. The lowercase 'i' in 'i’m struggling' and 'no' suggests a diminished sense of self and resignation. The conversational tone, especially in the dialogue, enhances the poem's relatability.

Emotional Impact

The poem's emotional impact stems from its raw honesty and the universality of its themes. While it lacks the depth that might be achieved through more complex language or imagery, the straightforward expression of struggle resonates with readers who have experienced similar feelings.