Grades 10–12
PoetryWritingThe rope has tied our hands
Together bonded by the same
Realization that we have no father
I am my mother’s daughter
Growing up without a dad
She basically went through the same
We had to hold onto each other
I am her strong daughter
She had two roles to fulfill
Still her love remained the same
She was like no other
I am her very loved daughter
Therapy at a young age
The way I process my feelings isn’t the same
Why couldn’t he have just been a father?
I am his unwanted daughter
This is all too much to go through
If I had had a say, it wouldn’t be the same
Ripped from me were happiness and laughter
I am their broken daughter
Eighteen and still feel strange
Why couldn’t he have loved me the same?
Will I feel like this forever?
I am his very confused daughter
Whenever I see a girl and her dad
I know I’ll never have the same
But I can change the future for the better
I will have a daughter
From all that I have experienced
I wouldn’t want to put her through the same
Not a reflection of her mother
She will be my unique daughter
She will grow up
What she’ll have, won’t be the same
Not just with a mother, but as well as a father
She will be our daughter
The rope has been cut from around my hands
She will not be bonded by the same
The future will be of us all together
She will be a very loved daughter
by Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
Lukoiy, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
A young student channels the voices of the people that are voiceless through the ringing music of poetry.
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.
Hanna D. P., Age 15, 826 Valencia
Our names are part of our identities--what happens when we can't claim them?
by Katya Torres, The 826 Dallas Project
This bilingual poem explores the harrowing story of a boy working while in school to save his mother.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Emmerson Todd, Grade 11, Novato High School, Novato, CA
This list poem shares tips to manage the anxiety that can come along with making a phone call.
by Abner L., 17, 826DC
Abner explores the meaning of his name through color, joy, strength, and heritage, connecting it to culture, family, and faith.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
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 David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Amalia O'Brien, Grade 10, Novato, CA
A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Helen, Grade 12, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a senior at South High School in Minneapolis offers words of support to healthcare workers across the country, including her own mom.
by Ryan, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student illustrates the hardships his uncle has faced to argue for a path to citizenship.
by Xiaoqing Cai, Grade 10, Greenbelt, MD
This dystopian sci-fi story reflects the issues and fears of today.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
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 Manuel C., 17, 826DC
Manuel sees his name as joyful and strong, linked to faith, fun, and his favorite characters, with two names that reflect who he is at home and at school.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
The A.M., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A poem that shines with self-love and acceptance, from the inside out.
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 Augustus Griffith Jr., 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.
Antonia O., Age 17, 826LA
A young writer's ode to her mother's resilience and hard work.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Terry Velasquez, Grade 12, The Bronx, NY
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares gratitude for the dedication of nurses and gives “credit where credit is due.”
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Julianna C. 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
Tariq C., Age 19, 826 Boston
A poet critiques the violent oppression of Africa and African people.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Maria, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student makes the case for creating community change by building youth centers in her neighborhood.
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 Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
Talea W., Age 18, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines their identity and Blackness through the heat of summer.
by Daniela Martinez, Grade 12, 826 Boston
A poem exploring an electric, freeing moment shared on the dance floor.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
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 Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
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 Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
by Corazón, 826 New Orleans
In this essay, a student threads their identity across cultures, histories, and places, engaging with legacies of violence and the movement of people.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Isaiah, 826 New Orleans
This student reveals the mysterious origin story of the king cake. Hint: it includes Big Freedia, DJ Chicken Wing, and a massive party.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
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 Rowan Yordy, Grade 11, 826michigan
This poem uses imagery to describe a small moment of joy.
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 Kailyn Espinosa, 826NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares how essential workers’ courage and compassion center her during these hectic times.
by Jeremy Hsiao, 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
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 Alexis G., Grade 11
In this narrative, the author uses vibrant language to explore their identity, in all its complexity, through different landscapes.
by Jazlin Lopez, Grade 10, Woodburn, OR
This poet draws strength and courage from her grandmother's love.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Ava Diaz, Grade 10, Woodburn, OR
A guiding light for all those who wander...
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
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 Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Fabian Gonzalez Rubio, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
A baby Jesus doll comes to life in this whimsical story!
Kaprice D., Age 15, 826 New Orleans
A writer builds love with her family through a shared special word.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Unique C., Age 15, 826 Valencia
Maya Angelou inspires this student's will to, despite everything, still rise.
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by George S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A writer implores people to get outside and touch grass because you never know what you might find!
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
by Jarmani M., Age 18, 826 Boston
Jarmani reflects on the pain of being rejected from his top high school, but through that challenge, he finds motivation. He grows more focused, disciplined, and driven to succeed in all areas.
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
Leenoa/LeeLee A., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A young poet laments on an unrequited love.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Yojannie Pizarro, Age 17, 826 Boston
This poem explores the beauty of friendship.
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.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Tyler, Grade 11, 826DC
In this powerful letter to the United States Congress, this student stands up for representation of young people in government.
Trinity L., Grade 11, 826 New Orleans
A poet explores the warmth and safety they feel with their love.
by Janeth GM, Grade 12, Woodburn, Oregon
This touching poem honors the author’s personal superhero: her mother.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Alisson Romero, Grade 11, 826LA
The author of this poignant piece expresses her love and gratitude for her hardworking and supportive parents.
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandfather she never met.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Denisse Reyes Gonzalez, Age 17, 826NYC
Using metaphors, this bilingual poem explores the idea of lost love.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Karla Amayo, 826LA
This bilingual poem describes the happiness and comfort of visiting family in Mexico.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
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.
Isabella V.M., Grade 11, 826NYC
A poet imagines their mother growing up and falls in love with a past and present version of their mother.
by Quardasha Mitchell, The 826 Dallas Project
In this compelling poem, the author navigates her relationship with America as a young African-American woman.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
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 Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Liana H., 826LA
The author of this piece shares her journey to feeling confident in her Salvadorean identity.
by Mia Pereyra, 826 Boston
A powerful poem about taking pride in being bilingual.
by Lukoiy, Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Sarah X. Age 18, 826Boston
A rousing public narrative from an author coming to terms with their identity as a young Chinese American woman and what they represent: the community of Boston's Chinatown.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Matthew Inoa, 826 NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student describes how essential workers are the pulse of New York, fueling the city’s hope.
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