i like to come back and revisit this one often. :) first of all... the graniness rocks my world! 2nd... you possess so much strength yet at the same time seem vulnerable. 3rd... your eyes are piercing!! :) and to top it all of the title is fantastic. :)
I'm not much of a fan of high key shots, but this one works well and does not strike me as blown out. The black and white is well done and is complemented by the grain in this pic.
Being shot at 1/5 sec and ISO 800, this must have been done in fairly low light. Good job on your exposure control!
Your use of the blinds as negative space really works well. The grain of the photo looks very natural over what I am assuming are wood blinds. This really helps keep the grain from being overpowering and helps set a solemn mood.