The Pleasures and Power in a Trans Identity: A “Found Poem” Found in a Discussion About Fashion

Abstract

This poem represents the qualitative findings from a study on transgender individual’s relationship to fashion. Eight transgender young adults were interviewed about their gender identity and presentation, as well as their use of clothing and fashion style to represent themselves. Within these interviews, all participants shared the pleasures and power they derive from their transgender identities. Using direct quotes, and intentionally arranging phrases and stories found within the interview transcripts, the authors created this found poem. A research poem was chosen to best represent this data as it allows the participants to maintain their power using their voices directly to more authentically represent their pleasures and joys in their identities. Themes that emerged, and are represented by the six color groups of stanzas, which include making connections to others and the queer community (red); gaining a unique perspective of the world (orange); finding opportunities and enjoying fluidity (yellow); enhancing pleasure in the body and physical representation of gender (green); creating power in visibility and representation (blue); and embracing the delight and freedom in a trans identity (purple).