Grades 9–10
PoetryWritingUNIQUE was born in San Francisco and she’s fifteen years old. What’s important to know is she likes to watch TV, she has 4 brothers, she sings to feel better, she likes to dance with friends, she loves to DIY, and she loves to bake. What she wants to do for her future is become a nurse or a real estate agent.
Just like moons and like suns, hopes springing high, still I’ll rise. Waking up feeling blue and sad, I rise pretending like I feel just fine. I’m a black ocean, leaping and wide, leaving behind nights of terror and fear about how I should feel the next day, I still rise.
Shoulders falling down like teardrops, weakened by my soulful cries at night?
The next day I feel great, detrimental, and happy, ready to do my goals. . . but there’s always something holding me down, my phone, stress, anxiety, tiredness, and responsibilities.
Do all of these things stop me from doing me, No! It just makes me work harder, especially the love and support I get from my family and friends.
I rise.
Does my sassiness upset you? Good because I don’t care, I feel rooted in pain for myself, caring too much about stupid things like how I should hide my true feelings that I feel in the moment all day.
I still rise! With all these reasons but I have better reasons why I rise when the sun comes up.
My parents, they believe in me so much and say I work too hard, but I can’t stop because I get that from them. My grandparents are always giving me good advice, my uncles and aunties are always finding me opportunities to earn money, this may be the reason why I want money all the time, my cousins are always hyping me up, and my friends are always there to support my decisions.
My goals are so high for me, but I want to start off slow before I
get too ahead of myself.
I rise and rise more from all this love and support, makes me
want to reach even closer to my goal.
In ten years, I will sprout out from the dirt into the sun, feeling beautiful and refreshed by all the support, love, and hard work I put in.
I rise.
I rise.
Inspired by Maya Angelou, I created this found poem from their work
“Still I Rise.”
Maya Angelou was like a tree for a small plain seed to be covered
over dirt and grow beautifully but slowly, the branches will spout out
long and strong by the sun that shines bright down on us.
Their words are empowering, like the sun,
pressing my skin, gives me energy when I’m feeling down.
***
This piece was originally published in 826 Valencia’s Breathing Between the Future and the Past.
by Kyla Edwards, 826 New Orleans
This creative short story explores a snapshot of what a future New Orleans might look like amid climate change.
by Regina, 826LA
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem expresses the realization that a cage is not the only obstacle to a bird's freedom.
by Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
Lyric M., Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes how the bright sun and a calming tree bring her peace.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
Kaprice D., Age 15, 826 New Orleans
A writer builds love with her family through a shared special word.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Luciana, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.
by Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
by Chidi A., Age 12, 826 Valencia
A poet hears the weight of history like music when playing basketball.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Christopher, Bryan, & Jahir, 826CHI
In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Savannah, 826NYC
Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.
by Sammie, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a freshman at South High School in Minneapolis thanks care workers for supporting our local and national communities during this global pandemic.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Pia, 826NYC
A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A laugh-out-loud personal narrative about a crush. Has your heart ever beat so fast it might get a speeding ticket and a $500 fine?
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Henry, Matthew, & Santiago, 826CHI
A compilation of letters written by three students across one city filled with thoughts on books, sports, music, family, and musings on Valentine’s Day.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Jose S., 15, 826DC
Jose’s name means lord of the world, filled with warmth and joy. At school he’s Jose, at home Bladimir, showing how his name carries both family roots and personal power.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
by Amalia O'Brien, Grade 10, Novato, CA
A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.
by Sabrin, Grade 10, 826 MSP
The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Sabrin, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 9th grader Sabrin discusses how she feels both happy and sad, and thanks nurses nationwide for bringing her peace through their work.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by William, 826LA
A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
Zain L., Age 13, 826CHI
A poet fights to understand a crucial question.
Leenoa/LeeLee A., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A young poet laments on an unrequited love.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Ricardo L., age 15, 826DC
Ricardo’s name carries strength and emotion, tied to bravery, heat, and a sad color, with playful and personal versions at school and home.
by Lizy A., 15, 826DC
Lizy describes her name as a promise of freedom and beauty connected to the sea and family, with unique meanings at school and at home.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Perla C., 15, 826DC
Perla connects her name to the sea, summer, and soft colors. It reflects her quiet strength, curiosity, and the different identities she carries at school and home.
by Joanne H, 826 Valencia
In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Gilbert, 826LA
One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
by Quran Samad, age 15, 826 Valencia
A young Black student's perspective on how it feels to grow up Black in the United States.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
by Tala, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 10th grader Tala asks essential workers what motivates them to keep going during these difficult times, offering her own views on hope for the future.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Reuben & Giselle, 826CHI
Two students write to each other about where they came from, what they love, and a few mishaps along the way in an exchange of letters.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student reflects on identity.
We are thrilled to have you as the newest member of our online community. Stay up-to-date on the the latest and most relevant resources, student publication opportunities, and what’s new with the 826 Digital community.
bookmark
download
Share