The poem “are you okay” by Ellen Everett delves into the depths of emotional turmoil, painting a vivid picture of internal struggles masked by a facade of composure. It explores the profound pain and shame that often accompany trauma or mental health challenges and the desperate desire to conceal these vulnerabilities to avoid judgment and further distress.

The opening line, “are you okay,” is a seemingly simple question, yet it triggers a complex response. It exposes the chasm between outward appearance and inner reality. The poet’s immediate response, “as quickly as I can,” highlights the urgency to deflect attention away from their emotional turmoil. This haste suggests a fear of vulnerability and a need to maintain a sense of control, even illusory.

The subsequent lines reveal the true nature of the poet’s emotional state. The “earthquakes in my voice” symbolize the internal tremors and instability that threaten to shatter their composure. The “tsunamis in my eyes” allude to the overwhelming emotions that surge beneath the surface, threatening to overflow. Finally, the “drought in my heart” conveys a profound sense of emptiness and despair, a lack of emotional nourishment.

These powerful metaphors underscore the intensity of the poet’s suffering. The imagery of natural disasters not only emphasizes the magnitude of their emotional turmoil but also suggests a sense of helplessness in the face of these internal forces. The poet is caught in a storm of their own making, battered by the waves of their emotions and the quakes of their anxieties.

The desire to hide these internal struggles is a common theme in the poem. The poet’s rapid response to the question “are you okay” is an attempt to conceal their pain and project an image of well-being. This desire to maintain a facade is driven by a fear of judgment, rejection, and the potential for further emotional harm. By hiding their true feelings, the poet hopes to avoid the prying eyes and intrusive questions that could exacerbate their suffering.

The poem ultimately speaks to the universal human experience of emotional pain and the challenges of seeking help. It highlights the importance of recognizing the signs of distress in oneself and others and creating a supportive environment where individuals feel safe to share their vulnerabilities. By giving voice to the silent struggles of those who suffer, the poem encourages empathy, understanding, and compassion. It reminds us that beneath the surface, even the most composed individuals may be battling inner demons.

“are you okay

they ask 

I respond 

as quickly 

as I can 

so they will not

notice the earthquakes 

in my voice 

or the tsunamis 

in my eyes 

or the drought 

in my heart” 

• Ellen Everett 

Image Credit: Niko Tsviliov on Unsplash.