Scars

Scars symbolize reminders of past pain and loss that the speaker chooses to discard. While scars can represent resilience to some people, the speaker in "Shedding Skin" holds no attachment to these physical reminders. She pulls out of her "old scarred skin" and renews her sense of vulnerability (1).

Shedding

Shedding symbolizes change and renewal. As a biological process, shedding allows for growth, development, and replacement of worn or damaged layers. In this poem, shedding also reflects how the speaker embraces vulnerability and authenticity.

Tough Skin Layers

Tough skin layers symbolize psychological defenses. While these layers serve a function, it is natural for them to shed and replace dead skin cells. The speaker actively participates in this process as a way to arrive at the "vulnerable stuff" beneath (10).

Vulnerable Stuff

Vulnerable stuff symbolizes the capacity to feel deeply and express one's thoughts, feelings, and imperfections. On a...