Under The Influence
written by: Pari Pandey
“I’m stepping out of my world into a new one,” they said.
I barged out the window, questions screaming in my head.
People walking by spoke words to me,
Words that stressed my heart and vanished my glee.
Just stay inside, fool. This world is not for you.
Warriors are many and survivors are few.
Just be a glorious mother and be a gracious wife,
Who puts her dreams at stake, for her man’s life.
“But I want to touch the sky, want to follow my dreams,
Want to step out of this guarded world and be the new queen.”
You can’t be this dumb, please look at yourself
You’re a woman, you have to stay inside without any quest.
“Why do you want to cage me within these four walls?
I’m a girl from this new era, I love cars more than dolls.”
Shhhh…. don’t speak so loud
You’re a woman, you can’t go out
We’re doing all this so that you can be safe
So please, come out from this rage.
They will use you the moment you step out
No one’s going to hear even your loudest shout.
“But I know I can deal with this pain
I’ve fallen before and stood up again.”
Then go if you must, step into that hell
We’ll pray for you, that’s all we can do well
But before you go, listen to something important
In that world of demons, you’re just a rodent.
They’ll use you, bruise you and tear you apart
And leave you there with a broken heart.
“My hands pulled the door, my legs moved ahead
I’ll survive there, I’m not that scared.
But what if their words were meant for my good?
Why was I even leaving, like I ever could?
Every single thing they said was absolutely right
I’ll surely die out there, I can’t even bear that sight.”
That’s it good girl, close the door my dear
Pull your steps back inside where you don’t have to fear.
“I’m good at my house, safe and sound
Ahh, why was I playing with this? I’m gonna throw this ball.
Mama, can you tell me where’s my doll?”
- Under The Influence - September 5, 2026
