For generations, men have been taught 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 masculinity that glorifies stoicism, strength, and virility that can be harmful to mental health. The poem Bluebird by Charles Bukowski conveys the message that men exemplify strength and tenacity as an asset to those they are in contrast to the display of emotion which is illustrated 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 clarifies many ideas from a feminist lens, where he makes comparisons and uses diction to illustrate the reality of toxic masculinity. We say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an Original Essay To emphasize the concept of toxic masculinity, Bukowski uses multiple comparisons 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. Through the use of this metaphor, Bukowski portrays 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 struggling to escape is an example of how it is just human nature to be emotional and vulnerable at times and it is important to let it out when necessary. The writer tries to express his emotions, but fears being ridiculed by society. Furthermore, Bukowski uses an additional metaphor to allow the reader to connect this important issue in society with the poem. To exemplify the contradictory standards regarding feeling, the poem reads "it's singing a little in there, I haven't let it quite die." This metaphor refers to the writer recognizing that his emotions and vulnerabilities exist even if these feelings within him are caged. He also doesn't let his emotions shut down, but he definitely doesn't let them loose. 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 feeling shame or embarrassment. In short, these specific metaphors allow readers to grasp the true hidden meaning of Bukowski's work. In the poem, Bukowski uses various diction to illustrate the portrayal of toxic masculinity and to aid understanding of the message the poem seeks to convey. For example, one example in the poem where the use of this device is evident is when he states, “Let us sleep together thus with our secret pact.” More specifically, it is noteworthy to mention that this poem is written to the Blue Bird, speaking to him, which precedes the idea of ​​Bukowski speaking to himself. The use of the word "secret pact" means confidentiality in the sense that he does not want anyone to discover the truth of the existing emotions he possesses. The secret pact is essentially the hidden truth that inside a man there is another side full of feelings and emotions. Furthermore, the reason why men's consumed vulnerability is oppressed or confidential is due to the social composition in which tears are weakness and vulnerability is a disadvantage. Furthermore, Bukowski once again uses this literary device in the line "but I pour him whiskey and inhale cigarette smoke." To keep his blue bird in a cage, he pours whiskey and cigarette smoke on him so that he stays inside and"..