Outside

This poem marks a distinction between inside and outside on various levels: according to physical structures, group allegiances, and personal identity. On the most basic level, the boy physically stands in the shadows outside the speaker's house. Depending on the language the speaker applies to the situation, the boy also stands outside of the reality she deems acceptable. She rejects connection with the boy when she uses language like "terrorist" and "hostile militant" (3 and 10). This is a phenomenon called othering, in which individuals or groups are defined and labeled as not fitting in with one's own group. When othering happens based on unfounded projections and prejudice, then it risks the possibility for disconnection and discrimination.

Inside

The concept of "inside" exists on different levels in the poem. These include inside the speaker's home, inside her notion of what is "acceptable," and inside of her emotional intimacy. When the...