Grades 9–12
NarrativeWritingHe gets up from his bed, navigating through the Barbie dolls and makeup sets that he left on the floor. He was Barbie’s makeup artist yesterday, and today he’ll be her hairdresser; at least that’s what he’s planning. There’s not one day where he neglects his dolls after school. Right after he finishes his homework, it’s off to play pretend, to remove himself from reality and be what he wants to be.
He goes to the bathroom, brushes his teeth, looks at himself in the mirror, and thinks: I wish my hair were longer. I wish my eyelashes were longer, too. He pouts and continues to get ready for another day of school, another day where the world revolves around him. He truly is the definition of being the center of attention.
His place in middle school is the celebrity that nobody likes; however, he’s still successful. He’s unforgettable, everyone is talking about him, and he’s extremely rich. Rich in confidence, in pride. That is him. He may be one of the youngest in his grade, but he has already turned more heads in the last few months than the eighth grade’s basketball team captain turned in three years. And today, he will do it again. He doesn’t plan to, but he will.
“Marcus? Are you ready for school?” His mom calls him down. He’s already dressed, and as his accessory, he is wearing the biggest smile you’ll ever see. Marcus makes his way down the stairs, wishing his mom could see the outfit he has put together today. She has no idea what her son is wearing or what he looks like, but she knows who he is. She hears what her son says quietly under his breath. She hears the way he talks. She hears him crying when he can’t get a hairstyle right. The sound of the styling gel container popping open and the combs falling
into the sink. She notices all these things about her son, and she still loves him. The son she gave birth to eleven years ago, the one she held in her hands with so much love and happiness. There’s nothing her son could ever do that would make her lose that feeling.
“Mama, I’m more than ready,” Marcus says, tippy-toeing with excitement.
His mother’s eyes are directed straight ahead. She’s not sure if she’s looking at her son or a wall. Her hands guide her down from his shoulders to his shirt and then to a piece of fabric, something from her childhood that she recognizes. She recognizes the three buttons on the front, the two deep pockets on the side, and the cutoff at the bottom with the soft lining.
“My skirt, Marcus,” she whispers in a breathy voice. “My pink skirt… you’re wearing it.”
He nods proudly.
“My pink skirt?” He asks, hoping that his mother will agree to his proposal.
“Yes, my love. It’s yours,” she laughs emotionally, sniffling her nose and caressing what she knows is her son’s cheek. “Anything that’s mine is yours.”
Marcus’s arms wrap themselves around his mother’s waist, gripping her with gratitude and affection. Her hands meet his head, and she kisses him on his forehead.
“My pink skirt,” Marcus repeats happily to himself.
After that moment with his mom, he says goodbye, getting ready to board the school bus outside the house. His head is held up high. Nothing you could say to him would affect him. He’s the protagonist, and we’re the extras.
The bus driver, Mr. Campbell, is quick to shoot Marcus a look of pity, but Marcus beams at him, says “good morning,” and walks to his seat. He already knows that everyone on that bus is looking at him, but he feels the same—positive and optimistic, completely unfazed.
The girls laugh at his outfit, even though they’d most likely wear it themselves. The boys call him gay and weird, even though they have no idea about Marcus’ sexual orientation. Still, Marcus feels like a shooting star, speeding through the aisle and stealing the attention of everyone around him whether they are mesmerized or not.
He sits alone in the back of the bus, peeking at the girl sitting across from him. She’s not alone, but she sits on the aisle side of the seat, one leg folded on top of the other.
Marcus copies her and does the same. The girl doesn’t notice him staring at her; she might be one of the prettiest girls he’s ever seen. He loves her long hair, her eyelashes, and her toned face. He feels guilty for noticing how physically mature the girl is at a young age, but he only admires her beauty for a long enough time until (for the first time in a long time) he starts to feel just a little pessimistic about himself.
Marcus stops looking at the girl and stares at his lap, sighing deeply. He comes to the realization that he doesn’t look like this girl, he doesn’t sound like this girl, and—looking at the tag on her bookbag—he would never have the same name as this girl.
But he remembers: Nothing is impossible. Never say never.
The bus starts to move, and he lays his head against the window, watching a flock of birds in the sky fly by. His lips curl on the side, and he almost lets out a chuckle; even though the birds fly together, they are individually free to fly anywhere.
One day, he thinks to himself. One day, they’ll be calling me something else. One day, Mama will help me change my name.
And when he finally thinks of one, he grins.
When the bus finally stops at school, Marcus is the last to get up from his seat and depart. Mr. Campbell twitches his eyebrow, somewhat bothered that he can’t get to the kid.
“What is it, Marcus? Am I going to have to deal with this little whim of yours each time I drive you to school?” Mr. Campbell knows what he says is a risk and that he can lose his job for harassing his students. It’s not a problem with Marcus, however. He holds an invisible shield that Mr. Campbell always bounces off of.
“Marcela,” Marcus corrects him, eyeing him with the same charming grin from before. “Call me Marcela.”
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
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 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 Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people
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 Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Augustus Griffith Jr., 826 National
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
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.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
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 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 Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
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 Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
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 Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
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 Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
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 Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
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 Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
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 Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
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 Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
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 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 Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
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 Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
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 Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
by Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
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 forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
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 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 Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
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 Alexis G., Grade 11
In this narrative, the author uses vibrant language to explore their identity, in all its complexity, through different landscapes.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
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 Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
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 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 Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
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.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
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 Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Lukoiy V.R.G., Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
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 Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Sabrin, 826 MSP
The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
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