The Other Side of the Glass

In collaboration with “The Art of Autism” organization, I had the amazing opportunity to adapt the poem “The Other Side of the Glass”, by Nikki Satterlund, to music. The poem follows the perspective of someone who is treated differently due to being on the autistic spectrum. The narrator struggles with this idea of being different, misunderstood, and separated from others. Much of this differential treatment comes from being misunderstood, yet the narrator often contemplates if it is their fault. Part way through, the poem takes a turn where the narrator realizes their worth--- they are proud of being different. They even realize that they can experience life in beautiful ways neurotypical people can’t. The ending of the poem shows a new perspective, that diversity is beautiful and powerful.

There are many lessons to be learned from “On the Other Side of the Glass.” The most prominent is that everyone comes with their own challenges, socially, mentally, physically, etc. However, these challenges are what makes us strong. We must accept people for who they are; being on the autistic spectrum does not make someone less than others, it simply gives them different perspectives on life. Lastly, society must do its job to accommodate diverse people. When we can make the accommodations needed, we will find that everyone has very important and unique roles to play in the greater good.