insufficient description

I've kept myself small for so long
I don't know how to breathe
outside a space larger  
than myself  
 
I solidify with anxiety  
statuesque, blank, polite  
but I'm not sure  
that's how you read me  
 
There are too many names  
for shy girl  
that I've been painted with  
and I wish I didn't care  
I wish they didn't leave  
indelible tattoos on my skin  
that only I can see  
but I'm convinced you know  
are there  
 
Bitch
Snob
Too smart (insufferable intellectual)
Brooding
Angsty
Melancholy  
Doesn't smile  
Goody two shoes  
(Kiss of death) nice  
(And my favourite) innocent
 
Like any of those words define me  
 
I've kept myself small for so long
I don't know how to breathe
outside a space larger  
than myself  
 
Today I'm a caricature  
would you risk getting to know me  
or are insufficient labels easier  
to explain the ways I keep myself safe  
(and lonely)