I feel like I’m an antique
One that you just found at a thrift store
Not one care for the backstory
Nor a care for every small detail painted on me
Just left on a shelf in your room; on display
Look at me and think, “I know you’re valuable.”
Anytime someone comes over and points me out
You’ll take me off that shelf
And show me off like some grand prize
Even though I cost $1.99
People tell you that I’m probably some knock-off glass ceramic
Something for attention with no value
But you didn’t plan on selling me anyways
Anytime paint chips off or something breaks
You don’t cover it up, glue it back on, or apply a piece of tape
You sit there and stare
Cause you know, everything you get at a thrift store won’t be up to par
I could be an unrestored painting, dirt, grime and all
Yet you’d still put me on your perfect, clean walls
I can be a bumped up pair of shoes
Yet you’ll still wear me
I could be jacket falling apart
The zipper won’t zip, coming undone at the seams
Yet you’ll still find a way to style me
People would question why you hang with me
Ask you about your intent
But you smile and shake your head
People would ask me not to corrupt you
Tell me to leave you alone because apparently, I’m disturbing you
They’ll wonder how we could ever form a bond
But people accept how elements form bonds
People talk about us like we’re pepsi and coke
But our cans pop the same, and when you open our bottles, we hiss no different
They display our friendship like shark and fish
Somehow, you’re the fish
They’ll ask you why you bought an antique like me
And to admit, I’m quite curious too.
Why would you want something as strange as me?
The question everyone asks, including me
But you’ll laugh and say,
“I’m an antique collector.”
Author’s Note:
This piece is inspired by finally feeling like someone wants you, or you feel like you fit in after searching for so long. Like, the feeling of officially being accepted after every space you’ve been in used your services/friendship as a step stool.
Tyniah Nolley | 14 | Covington, GA | @wholuv_koko on Instagram
