The Bullfighter Checks Her Makeup

"The Bullfighter Checks Her Makeup" is a poetry collection by Terrance Hayes that explores themes of identity, race, beauty, and societal roles. Through vivid language and powerful imagery, Hayes examines how African American women navigate cultural expectations and personal self-expression. The title metaphor suggests a combination of strength and vulnerability—comparing a bullfighter's courage with a woman's confidence in presenting herself. Overall, the collection invites reflection on personal identity amid societal pressures, highlighting resilience, grace, and the complexity of individual experience.