Gender Noncompliant Poetry & Art

Cozy corner

A coat rack stands in the corner of a room. On the coat rack is a navy blue cardigan with a black belt and locks attached to it. The locks all have their keys inserted but remain locked. A hat rests atop the rack and a pair of well-used white high top converse shoes are at the bottom with two of the rack’s feet resting inside them. Beside the coat rack is a long mirror with a black frame decorated with local native plants and shells. The mirror is leaning against the wall and rests on a cinder block. Written on the mirror in red is a poem: Cozy Corner Everywhere I go I build a cozy little corner, a comfy place where I can feel safe. Where I can shield myself from the chaos and stay in isolation even when, especially when, surrounded by others. I love my cozy corner. I can set it up wherever. It travels with me and protects me. I strap myself in, lock everyone out, and watch the show around me. The sociable flit about like hummingbirds to flowers, feeding off one another’s energy. I quietly observe stuck in my corner wishing it weren’t so cozy but relieved that it is. Maybe someday I’ll open the locks, release the straps, and join the cacophony. They all look like they’re having so much fun. Maybe just maybe that day can be today.
Concept and creation by Mandamoonie and Guy Duke
Words by Guy Duke
Multimedia piece

Original available for sale at Kreative Grounds Cafe, McAllen, TX, until Nov. 15, 2025.

Available as print:
8.5″x14″

Purchase print ($15)