Porcelain Standards by Zoë Coval

Might as well be a doll, When you drop me I’ll fall. Button eyes and painted smile. It’ll rub off in a while.

Trade in my yarn for blonde hair, And I’ll change what I wear. I’ll also need to get paper thin. So maybe then I’ll fit in.

Might as well stay in my box. I feel safe behind key and lock. Small head and big heart. But my plastic is torn apart.

Trade in my yarn for blonde hair, And I’ll change what I wear. I’ll also need to get paper thin. So maybe then I’ll fit in.

Might as well sit on my shelf. Even though I’ll be by myself. Chipped paint and strong thread. Too much dark in a little head.

Trade in my yarn for blonde hair, And I’ll change what I wear. I’ll also need to get paper thin. So maybe then I’ll fit in.

Might as well undo my hem, Cause I’ll never look like them. Extra skin and pure soul. Why is this world so cold?

Trade in my yarn for blonde hair, And I’ll change what I wear. I’ll also need to get paper thin. So maybe then I’ll fit in.

—Zoë Coval ’23