DNA of a Doll
My eyes shine glossy
as I look toward your face.
You collected us
like prized possessions—
placed us in boxes and closets,
promising someday
we would earn a shelf.
You fixed our hair,
our makeup,
our clothes,
only to watch us remain there.
We feel like failures,
the failed DNA of a doll.
We wish to play,
to become more
than a pretty thing on a shelf.
We want make-believe—
something, anything—
to be loved
as we once were.
Our DNA is plastic,
porcelain,
and castings;
wirings and circuits.
Our clothes are fabric,
lace, and pearls—
made to be seen,
bought,
and loved.
Yet you sit us on the shelf
like fallen leaves
outside your window.
We become nothing
but collected dust
in the possession
of a monster
who never plays with us.
When I first read this poem, I was deeply moved by how it personifies dolls in such a vulnerable and expressive way. It really made me think about how objects—especially dolls—can represent more than just toys or collectibles; they can symbolize emotions, memories, and the yearning for connection. The phrase "the failed DNA of a doll" struck me as especially powerful, suggesting not only their physical makeup of plastic and porcelain but also their fractured existence as things meant to be loved but instead left to gather dust. In my personal experience collecting dolls, I’ve noticed that many are valued primarily for their appearance or rarity rather than for imaginative engagement. I’ve tried to challenge this by creating scenarios for play and storytelling with my dolls, giving them life beyond their surface beauty. This poem resonates so much because it confronts the sadness of objects that were once cherished but have become mere possessions—a reminder of the importance of meaningful interaction over simple ownership. Moreover, the detailed description of the dolls’ fabricated DNA, clothes of lace and pearls, and the idea of being "collected like prized possessions" uncovers a broader commentary on how society often treats beauty and worth. The dolls’ desire "to be loved as we once were" reflects a universal human longing for acceptance and purpose. For anyone who enjoys poetry or storytelling photography, this work provides a rich source of inspiration. It encourages us to look at everyday items with empathy and perhaps to think about the stories we assign to the objects around us. The hashtags like #dollpoetry and #storytellingphotography invite further exploration of how art can give voice to the voiceless and find beauty in overlooked details. Overall, "DNA of a Doll" exemplifies the power of poetry to awaken deep emotions and reflections, using the metaphor of dolls to explore themes of neglect, identity, and the human need to connect beyond surface appearances.
amen 🥰ty ❤️