Exploring the Beauty of Diversity: A Poem About Culture

Introduction

Culture is the essence of every society. It is the unique flavor that distinguishes one community from another. Sadly, the beauty of diversity is often overshadowed by narrow-mindedness and ignorance, leading to a sense of superiority and entitlement. However, when we take the time to understand and appreciate the cultural differences around us, we can truly open ourselves up to a whole new world. With this in mind, we will explore the concept of culture through the lens of a captivating poem.

Body

“We Wear The Mask” by Paul Laurence Dunbar

We wear the mask that grins and lies,
It hides our cheeks and shades our eyes,—
This debt we pay to human guile;
With torn and bleeding hearts we smile,
And mouth with myriad subtleties.

Why should the world be over-wise,
In counting all our tears and sighs?
Nay, let them only see us, while
We wear the mask.

We smile, but, O great Christ, our cries
To thee from tortured souls arise.
We sing, but oh the clay is vile
Beneath our feet, and long the mile,
But let the world dream otherwise,
We wear the mask!

In this poem, Dunbar speaks of the masks we wear to hide our true feelings and the struggles we face. The poem depicts both the pain and the beauty of the mask, and how it can be both a shield and a burden.

Our masks can be symbolic of the cultural expectations that we put on ourselves or others put on us. Many times, individuals feel a sense of cultural obligation, leading to conformity to societal norms and less individual expression.

However, culture is something that should be celebrated, not hidden behind a mask. Through the embracing of cultural differences, we can begin to appreciate and learn from one another.

The Importance of Cultural Diversity

Cultural diversity fuels innovation, creativity, and a dynamic society. By understanding cultures different from our own, we can develop a deeper appreciation for the world around us. It is through this understanding that we can create connections that form new ideas and perspectives.

Unfortunately, the beauty of diversity can often be overshadowed by fear and misunderstanding. By breaking down cultural barriers, we can begin to see the person beyond nationality, race, or ethnicity.

Examples of Cultural Diversity

There are countless examples of cultural diversity worldwide. One such example is the food we eat. Every country has its own unique cuisine derived from its culture. The spices, flavors, and cooking techniques used in each dish are a reflection of the cultural heritage it represents.

Another example is music. Music is a universal language that brings communities and cultures together. It transcends barriers and limits and speaks to the soul, making us feel connected to one another beyond surface differences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the poem “We Wear The Mask” demonstrates how the mask can be both a blessing and a curse. It can hide our pain and struggles, but at the same time, it can also prevent us from living authentically. Embracing cultural diversity is crucial to our growth as individuals and as a society. When we find common ground with each other, we can appreciate and learn from our differences, thereby creating a richer, more vibrant world.

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