Grades 9–12
PoetryWritingOlivia H. is from Chicago, Illinois. As a member of the 826CHI’s Teen Writers Studio, her piece “Stars” was first published in 826CHI’s I Will Hold You Like a Bible. You can read more about the project here.
I spend a lot of time thinking about the stars
Bright lights in the darkest of nights
As if black ink were spilled across the sky
When I look at the stars, I’m reminded of a quote I like,
“The dance between darkness and light will always remain—
the stars and the moon will always need the darkness to be seen,
the darkness will just not be worth having without the moon and the stars”
Words, like stars, are immortal
And when I look at the stars
I hear the stories of those who came before me
Decades and generations between us
But they used the stars just like I do,
For comfort,
and relief,
and as a reminder that I have a guide even when it feels like I’ve lost the map
If I had lived 200 years ago,
I would have looked at the stars and seen a roadmap to freedom
My skin dark like the night,
leaves under my feet
wind lashing against my cheek
Running
Always running
Because even now
Freedom is an illusion for many more than it is a reality
And life is a race in which you see how long you can run before you are
stopped in you tracks,
Because a boy in your city was shot 16 times
and each shot rang out in your ears like the 16 years you had lived
because you were in fact almost 16 when you finally saw the footage
And still, no justice
What do you want me to do
When I live my life in fear
Not even for myself
But for my brothers and sisters in the world who aren’t as lucky as me
My head spins
and I think
and I think
and I think
I think about what you see when you see my father
a black man living in America
because after one too many times I can’t keep telling myself that random
selection at the airport is really all that random
I can’t keep telling myself that everything is ok
because it’s not
But from darkness comes light
Like shimmering stars emerging from a hazy dusk
And I am strong
and vulnerable
and angry
and proud
I’m Olivia to the world
and ladybug to my mom
I’m young,
and full of wishes that I still whisper into the night when a star makes
its way across the sky
I want change
I don’t want to worry about my dad
or my friends
or my neighbors
I don’t want my daughter to ever feel like brown skin isn’t beautiful
I don’t want to live in a world where a color can be a crime
So I take these wishes
and hopes
and prayers
And I write them on my mirror in lipstick
And the red stained glass reminds me of a past in which blood dripped
from black fingers onto white cotton
But at the same time
I think of the blood coursing through my veins
And I think about how we are all the same on the inside,
blood and bones and a beating heart
And I place my hand over my chest,
and I feel it beat once
and twice
and again and again
And once again, I’m thinking
Thinking about how beat has four letters just like l-o-v-e and f-e-a-r and
h-o-p-e and s-t-a-r
Star
And I smile, and apply that lipstick,
red like the fire igniting within me,
and I sit down at my desk to gaze outside my window
Four stars always shine the brightest,
and each one gets a letter in the way you might have guessed
S-t-a-r, I whisper into the dark,
until a fifth one catches my eye and I’m awarded an extra letter
And I’m compelled to spell a new word,
one that’s written in the stars and written in night
B-l-a-c-k
Black.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
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 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 Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
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 Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
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 Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
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 Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Amalia O'Brien, Grade 10, Novato, CA
A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
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 Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
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 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 Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
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 Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
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 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 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 Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
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 Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
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 Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
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 Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
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 Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandfather she never met.
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 Denisse Reyes Gonzalez, Age 17, 826NYC
Using metaphors, this bilingual poem explores the idea of lost love.
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 Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Rowan Yordy, Grade 11, 826michigan
This poem uses imagery to describe a small moment of joy.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people.
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 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 Pia, 826NYC
A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
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 Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Daniela Martinez, Grade 12, 826 Boston
A poem exploring an electric, freeing moment shared on the dance floor.
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 Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
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 Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
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 Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
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.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
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.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
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.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
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 Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
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 Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Yojannie Pizarro, Age 17, 826 Boston
This poem explores the beauty of friendship.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student reflects on identity.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
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 Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
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 Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
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 Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
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 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.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
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.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
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 Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
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 Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
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 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 Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
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 Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
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 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 Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
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 Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
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.
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