Dear Influencer

NaPoWriMo 2025, Day 8

How did you become a caged actor
Working overtime in a small glass box
Held in the hands of those who buy you
And owned by those who pay your bills?

Trapped, as well, by the character
That grows on you like an epiphyte
Fashioned and fed by user engagement,
Clicks, subscribers, likes, and shares.

Are you a vessel for elusive dreams,
Ensconced in product placement?
What do your users followers project onto you…
Or do you prefer the term c o m m u n i t y?

Do you ever want to leave your brand
And live your own authentic life,
Where you are your number one fan
And your measure of ROI is joy?