Cages
It's because of my large frame, isn't it? (( You think I'm mean, scary, a brute that's easily angered))
It's because of my slurred speech, isn't it? (( You think I just can't talk properly because I'm dumb, stupid - not that it's a complicated tongue to speak))
It's because I'm strong, isn't it? (( Because strong people can never cry right? ))
It's because you need to shove people into nice little labeled boxes, stereotypes and tie it up neatly with a pretty little bow, isn't it? (( People aren't meant to be put in boxes; cages ))
The crowd screams for blood and I feel sick to my stomach. They want me to punch somebody I have pinned down - somebody I've already beaten. Unnecessary violence. My fist clenches on reflex, but I let it hover over, not moving my arm. They call me great and chant and cheer for me.
Instead of bringing my fist down, I let it fall limp and use my other hand to help the person to their feet. The crowd boos and jeers. They call me weak and cowardice and sneer at me.
They tried to put me in a cage and didn't like the good person inside the beast escape.
It's not because of my family, is it? (( My sweet little sisters and loving parents that raised me in a home full of love ))
It's not because of my personality, is it? (( Usually gentle and generous with a pinch of anger that is quickly apologized for ))
It's because you can shoehorn me into what you want in your mind. (( But I won't stand for it; I'll bend those bars ))
The other five anthros are as uncomfortable as I am. It's a big thing, to go and live with a bunch of strangers. But I do it, because I can see myself in them. Weary bodies and old eyes that shouldn't be on such young faces.
I have big shoulders and I'll let them cry on them anytime they need if only they let me do the same.
It's because I'm an anthro, isn't it? (( The beast with more humanity than the actual humans ))
It's because I'm different, isn't it? (( Everyone wants to fit in, even if they have to carve their very essence out ))
Ironic, isn't it, that everyone wants to be the same so everyone copies someone, even the person you're trying to copy?
Cages are cold and big and nobody belongs inside. Not anthros, not humans, nobody. Nobody should be confined to stereotypes.
I am big and strong but I also cry and I'm smart and kind and not scary at all despite what my appearance says. But because of these struggles, I go far below the surface of myself and those around me.
When others are put in cages and do their best to rattle the lock, I will walk towards them with open arms and an open mind. And I will put a key in, and set them free.
A/N: Well, I hope this made some sense. Finally have my character study chronicles complete. :) Slam doesn't get enough love and I gave a little background on him. As someone who was probably shoved into stereotypes and judged so prematurely throughout his life, he would probably be the most open-minded of the team.
Review if you want to. Also, if you have any oneshot requests or prompts, I'll try to write them out for you. Just leave one in the box below. Thank you all so much for taking the time to read.