The Regulation Journal

I’ve always been a straight man. That part has never been confusing for me. But the energy I carry — the emotional openness, the sensitivity, the aesthetic appreciation — often gets labeled as “bi” or “pan” energy.

At first, I didn’t understand it. Now I realize it’s because my masculinity didn’t come from safety. It came from surviving environments where men were unpredictable or intimidating.

I didn’t grow into the traditional tough, stoic version of a man. I grew into something softer, gentler, more complex.

And that kind of masculinity scares people — because it doesn’t fit the mold.

But it’s who I am.

I can admire male beauty without wanting men.I can write about panromantic characters without being pansexual.I can talk about men emotionally without questioning my identity.

Masculinity, for me, is a reclaiming — not a restriction.