When I Grow Up I Want to Be a List of Further Possibilities

The main thematic concern of “When I Grow Up I Want to Be a List of Further Possibilities” is intersectionality (see: Further Literary Resources). Merriam-Webster defines intersectionality as “the complex, cumulative way in which the effects of multiple forms of discrimination (such as racism, sexism, and classism) combine, overlap, or intersect especially in the experiences of marginalized individuals or groups” (merriam-webster.com). Kimberlé Crenshaw, who coined the term in 1989, says intersectionality allows one to “see where power comes and collides” (“Kimberlé Crenshaw on Intersectionality, More than Two Decades Later.” Interview. Columbia Law School, 8 June 2017). Both definitions appear in Chen’s poem.

Chen’s “list” addresses the complex power dynamics of intersectionality, underscoring how each individual part of Chen’s identity interacts with and impacts the others. Through honest poetry and autobiography, Chen acknowledges the nuances of his own unique experiences, considering his gender, race, and orientation as things that have the potential to both oppress and liberate him. The amalgamation of Chen’s identity impacts the relationships he has with the people in his life; however, it is ultimately Chen himself who defines his own self-worth. Oppression, therefore, is something that arises from outside sources that want Chen to “perform” in a specific way, leading to overt and/or subversive discrimination (such as his parents associating gay men with the color pink). The poem details how Chen has the capacity “to be” whatever he imagines, including someone who loves “hot pink” (Line 30), thus taking control of the narrative that could so easily be defined by outside voices. Chen is introspective, at times self-critical, but he’s ultimately hopeful for the future. And he defines that future with helpful, hopeful intersectionality.

“When I Grow Up I Want to Be a List of Further Possibilities” is a poem about self-discovery and acceptance. Chen acquires insight into his own character, abilities, and intimate feelings as the piece progresses. This process of gaining knowledge happens in real time, with Chen’s thoughts unfolding as the lines do (see: Literary Devices “Form and Meter”). The theme of self-discovery serves as an overarching reminder that human beings never stop growing up, they never stop “becoming // their own storms” (Lines 20-21). Chen uses his brothers as example within the poem to illustrate just how much he wants himself and others to have a healthy space in which to discover and to accept discoveries.

Chen uses relationships as the catalysts of this constant change, arguing that the process of self-discovery cannot be contained inside one poem alone. This process, actually, will never end. Even the back-and-forth between Chen and his parents, as well as the relationship with his other relatives, is one of flux, give and take. The poem is a list, but it is a non-exhaustive one, as Chen cannot possibly imagine all of the possibilities that lie in his future. Self-discovery is a theme of hope and acceptance, imagining one’s relationship with the self as vital to maintaining all other types of relationships. Acceptance of the self and of the things one discovers about the self, the poem offers, can allow one to live more in harmony with others as well.