The below poem was inspired by this article about the discrimination faced by a visually impaired photographer in today’s London Metro, by Channel 4 reporter Ned Boulting. Following early comments on this piece, I would like to clarify that I am not the photographer Ned refers to, I am writing as if I am – trying to put myself in his shoes.
I see
I might be visually impaired, but I can see
I see enough to know that you’re laughing at me
That you don’t see beyond my disability
Without even looking at my portfolio you judge me too quickly
Having seen none of my work you’ve already dismissed me
I wouldn’t be here if I wasn’t good at what I do
I have as little time to waste as you do
I’m busy too
This week I’ve been capturing the spirit of the Paralympics
Recording our heroes in mid-action glory
I don’t just take a picture
I record images that tell the whole story
You only see
What you feel is missing in me
But who is it that sees more clearly?
Even when darkness cloaks the stadium
Leaving me almost blind
I still see your ignorance clearly
And yes, I do mind.
Honest Speaks 