“Patriarch demands of men to become and remain emotional cripples.“
- bell hooks 

Something Was Missing Within explores the emotional detachment at the heart of traditional stereotypes of masculinity. From an early age, boys are taught to be strong - to suppress vulnerability and sensitivity. Over time, this denial of emotional depth becomes a missing part within. It seems that the test of manhood lies in the willingness to accept this loss and remain silent about it. The work reflects on how this absence shapes identity, intimacy, and connection of men.

23x28 cm
104 pages
Soft cover
Editing and art direction by Tommaso Parrillo
Design by Ilaria Miotto
Text by Dirk Gieselmann
Published in Novemebr 2025
ISBN 979-12-80177-60-5