A Woman First, A Person Second

I sit there in silence

as all my memories fade

alone with my sorrows

and the mistakes that I made

Like wearing that shirt

with the top button undone

or rolling up my skirt

to cope with the burning sun

Oh the mistake that I caused

thinking they would listen

when they stare at my chest

is the only time their eyes glisten

And it's my fault for thinking

I had something worthy to say

when to them I'm an object

with which they can touch and play

Oh I swear that I'm talking

but they don't hear a sound

already imagining me with them

my clothes on the ground

And it's my fault for dreaming

that one day this would stop

when their eyes scan my way

I still feel my heart drop

Oh but please can't you hear me?

I'm screaming I swear

but men will never pay attention

unless your body is bare