“Self-Portrait as So Much Potential” by Chen Chen (2017)

“Self-Portrait as So Much Potential” appears alongside “When I Grow Up I Want to Be a List of Further Possibilities” in Chen’s debut full-length collection of poetry, When I Grow Up I Want to Be a List of Further Possibilities (2017). Chen uses various metaphors to explore the hopes and dreams he holds for his future, comparing those aspirations to the strict expectations of his family members, namely his mother. “Self-Portrait of So Much Potential” is thematically concerned with identity politics, complicated family dynamics, and feelings of inadequacy, all of which are present within “When I Grow Up I Want to Be a List of Further Possibilities,” adding nuance and perspective to Chen’s autobiographical work.

“Poem in Noisy Mouthfuls” by Chen Chen (2017)

“Poem in Noisy Mouthfuls” also comes from Chen’s debut collection. Chen writes from a position of intersecting identities, interrogating the space he occupies as a Chinese American, gay male writer with varying levels of self-awareness. Throughout the poem, Chen questions what it means to only write from this one, specific position with a tentative yet genuine curiosity. “Poem in Noisy Mouthfuls” highlights Chen’s quick-witted honesty, and his propensity to find joy even in moments of deep existentialism.