I Defy Gravity - poem inspired by the movie Wicked

“I Defy Gravity”

(poem inspired by Wicked 2024 film - Defying Gravity)

My empathy is grounded in my othering

and I want everyone to experience life without suffering.

We all have a delightful destiny

that is not predetermined by your loathing

and your denial of voice.

So my journey is a choice

of morality

despite the labels you give me.

I. defy. gravity.

I don’t need validation and performative allyship from you

I know I am glorious and true

not measured by the beauty standards achieved by the few.

No name change can transform me

and I proudly

speak my vernacular.

I don’t need your bigoted ideals to make me popular.

I am the beauty

of the universe

and within my being

is the majick of the sea

as my words are an enchanting verse.

I. defy. gravity.

I am the moon beaming in the midnight sky.

I am the sorcerer of solar power

and I eclipse all of your demented dreams high in the tower.

I am beyond the “Wiz” that does not understand my why.

I battle the fear and move with courage, and will not cower.

I refuse to succumb to your greedy selfish pride.

I am resolute in rejecting your ambition

as I defiantly leap forward and ride.

I believe in myself and trust my intuition.

I honor all that I am and will be

I. defy. gravity.

I don’t grovel for your approval

because I know my worth

and no matter how you

plot my removal

I proudly exist on this earth.

I persevere through the disinformation and defamation

as they disparage me around town

I am the unintended commotion

because of my very existence from birth.

They try to keep me down.

They see me as a mystery

nonetheless, I know everyone has the right to liberation.

So we must fight in unity

with strategic collaboration

to defy. gravity.

My inner child gives me strength, as I know how powerful I can be.

I am the essence of the stars in the sky.

I sweep through the western winds as I fly

with the clouds surrounding me.

They call me wicked, but I am regal.

My wisdom is woke like an owl’s can be.

My strength soars like an eagle

for all humanity.

I. defy. gravity.

I am unlimited possibilities.

I am free

in the truth of my love and herstory.

I am all that my ancestors hoped I could be.

I exude the essence of the roots of the baobab tree.

I am the life giving source.

I am the force.

I. defy. gravity.

- Dr. Tarece Johnson-Morgan

watch video: https://youtu.be/agPFFxxmKVI?si=plWcbCHj3lxwK3LD

#Elphaba #Wicked #DefyGravity #cynthiaerivo #Poem #Poetry #Prose #FreedomDreams #ResilientHope #BlackWomen

2024/12/7 Edited to

... Read moreIt's incredible how certain stories just stick with you, isn't it? For me, the magic of 'Wicked' has always been more than just a musical or a movie; it's a profound journey of self-discovery and defiance. Whenever I think of Elphaba, the image of her iconic 'flying silhouette' against the sky immediately comes to mind. It’s not just her taking to the air, but what that moment represents: breaking free from expectations, embracing her power, and truly 'defying gravity' in every sense of the word. That powerful scene, where the Wicked Witch of the West embraces her true self, is something I reflect on often. It's like seeing a mirror to our own struggles and triumphs. We all have moments where we feel the weight of the world, or the 'gravity' of others' opinions, trying to hold us down. But Elphaba shows us that we have this incredible innate strength to rise above it all. When I see images of Cynthia Erivo embodying Elphaba, with her green skin and determined gaze, I feel that surge of courage. It’s a visual anthem for anyone who has ever felt 'othered' or misunderstood. For me, 'defying gravity' isn't about literal flight, though that would be amazing! It's about finding your voice when others try to silence it. It's about pursuing your own path, even if it's unlike anyone else's. Think about those times you've stood up for what's right, or chased a dream despite doubts – that's your personal 'defying gravity' moment. It’s about not letting the 'Wiz' or anyone else dictate your worth or your 'why.' The poem above tries to capture that spirit, that visceral feeling of liberation when you finally say, 'This is who I am.' It’s a celebration of resilience, of knowing your own 'majick' even when the world calls you 'wicked.' The idea of Elphaba soaring over the Emerald City, leaving behind the judgment and fear, is a powerful metaphor for shedding the burdens that keep us grounded. We’re often told to stay in our lane, to fit into molds, but what if our true destiny is to create our own sky? So, how do we tap into our inner Elphaba and truly defy gravity in our daily lives? It starts with self-belief. It's trusting your intuition, honoring your unique journey, and understanding that your empathy and experiences are your superpowers. Don't seek external validation; instead, cultivate an unwavering belief in your own glorious truth. Just like Elphaba, we have the power to transform our narrative, to weave our own enchanting verse, and to make our existence a powerful, undeniable statement. Every time you choose courage over fear, authenticity over conformity, you are, in your own beautiful way, defying gravity.