Red

By Frances Macaulay Forde

Thu, 07 Aug 2025
  • 164 reads
6 comments
 

Sometimes I make dollies - this one reminded me of a poem I wrote for a favourite niece. 

 

RED

 

Red

is supposed to be

fiery tempered

liable to catch alight

at any time, smouldering

 

heat just waiting

to ignite – right?

That’s on the outside…

Her surface simmers

 

but inside she’s easily hurt,

has no confidence and

feels fat when she isn’t.

She just wants to be

 

loved for who she is.

Wants someone to see

past her red hair and

the stereo-typing.

 

Frances Macaulay Forde © 2008

 

 

Certificate 15
Poem
Written in Australia
Biography

Comments

Submitted by Rhiannonw on

that's thoughtful. Of course, sometimes, it works the other way too — the one feeling sensitive is unconsciously misjudging others herself too! Need encouragement to show interest and find that helps others to show interest in them. Rhiannon

 

Submitted by Frances Macaula... on

Thank you for reading and commenting Rhiannonw, you're right, of course.  Best wishes.

Soundcloud:  https://soundcloud.com/search?q=FrancesMF

Submitted by skinner_jennifer on

I like your association of red not only being a fiery colour, but also carrying  the meaning of sensitivity. It's far too easy to stereotype people.

Respectful account in your poem Frances.

Jenny.

 

Submitted by Frances Macaula... on

Thanks so much Jenny, for reading and commenting.  My point exactly.  Hope this finds you well. 

Soundcloud:  https://soundcloud.com/search?q=FrancesMF

Submitted by Jessiibear on

This moved me more than I expected. There’s such tenderness in the contrast—bold outside, soft and aching inside. I think a lot of us carry a shade of Red.

Jess <3

Submitted by Frances Macaula... on

Why else do we write, Jessiibear?  Thank you so much for reading and being so moved.  Stay safe and well. 

Soundcloud:  https://soundcloud.com/search?q=FrancesMF