For generations, men have learned to “be a man” through the expression of toughness, courage, violence, and through sex. According to Dictionary.com, toxic masculinity is defined as a cultural concept of manhood that glorifies stoicism, strength, and virility, which can harm mental health. The poem Bluebird by Charles Bukowski conveys the message that men exemplify strength and tenacity as an asset to who they are, unlike emotion which is exemplified as a weakness. Throughout the poem there is a continuous metaphorical flow of his emotions depicted as a caged bluebird. It is evident that Bukowski's work elucidates many ideas from a feminist perspective, in which he draws comparisons and uses diction to illustrate the reality of toxic masculinity. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on “Why Violent Video Games Should Not Be Banned”? Get an original essayTo emphasize the conception of toxic masculinity, Bukowski uses multiple similes in the form of metaphors. For example, "There's a bluebird in my heart that wants to come out" is a phrase repeated throughout the poem. By using this metaphor, Bukowski depicts the idea that his emotions are almost identical to those of a caged bluebird yearning for freedom. The cage represents the social structures that prevent men from expressing their true feelings and vulnerabilities. While the bird fighting to escape is an illustration of the fact that human nature is emotional and vulnerable at times and it is important to let it out when needed. The writer seeks to express his emotions, but he fears being ridiculed by society. Additionally, Bukowski uses an additional metaphor to allow the reader to connect this important societal issue to the poem. To illustrate the conflicting standards of feeling, the poem says, "He sings a little in there, I didn't really let him die." This metaphor refers to the writer recognizing that his emotions and vulnerabilities exist even though these feelings within him are bottled up. Additionally, he doesn't let his emotions die out, but he certainly doesn't let them run free. Bukowski uses this metaphor to convey the message that men, just like women, need to express their emotions and be able to feel vulnerable without feelings of shame or embarrassment. In short, these specific metaphors allow readers to grasp the true underlying meaning of Bukowski's work. In the poem, Bukowski uses various dictions to illustrate the depiction of toxic masculinity and to deepen the understanding of the message the poem is trying to convey. For example, one example in the poem where the use of this device is evident is when he states, "We sleep together like this with our secret pact." » More specifically, it is worth mentioning that this poem is written to the Blue Bird, speaking to him, which precedes the idea that Bukowski is speaking to himself. The use of the word "secret pact" means confidentiality in the sense that he does not want anyone to find out the truth about the existing emotions he possesses. The secret pact is basically the hidden truth that inside a man there is another side filled with feelings and emotions. Furthermore, the reason why vulnerability consumed by men is oppressed or confidential is due to the social composition where tears are a weakness and vulnerability a disadvantage. Additionally, Bukowski uses this literary device again in the phrase “but I pour him whiskey and inhale cigarette smoke.” To keep your bird »..