Poem: “A Letter to an Old Friend”

From the cherished memories, you gave me 

To those times under the fig tree.

The friendship bracelets we made together 

With our hearts feeling light as a feather.

Not even sure if it was just a handful of dimes,

I … Read More

Fiction: “Spontaneous Robbery”

I’m currently slumped on my carpetless, hardwood floor. I sold my couch to pay for last month’s rent. My back hurts from sleeping on this cold surface every night. Not to mention I’m sick from yet another common cold. 

With … Read More

Poetry: “The Bald Eagle: America’s Reality”

Have you heard the story about the bald eagle?

The bald eagle that flies ever so free?

Flying so close but barely touching the sea?

It wanted to be like a fish in the ocean,

But when it knew it … Read More

Poetry: “In Loving Memory of Kobe Bryant”

Ten seconds left on the clock and he needed to score

The crowd screamed and watched for more

His team hustled and passed him the ball

The crowd went silent and wondered if he could make it at all

… Read More

Fiction: “One More Night”

EDITOR’S NOTE: The following piece involves references to suicide that some may find upsetting or triggering. If you or anyone you know needs help, please reach out to the National Suicide Prevention Hotline, 1-800-273-8255.

She hates her sister’s curtains, she … Read More

Poetry: “Blood, Guts, and Angel Cake”

By Paige Besante and Ra’saan Stevens

Housewife

Tonight I’ve soaked in cold bath water to hide every pore I bare.

The rose petals have lost their scent and I have rollers in my hair.

Cold air hits my skin and … Read More

Poem: “The Universal Weapon”

The echoes of the bullets firing shake a nation

As innocent and fulfilling lives are taken 

Bodies, prayers, and shouts all seem to pile up

For some people, this riles them up 

The cries of a mother holding her lifeless … Read More

Poetry: “I Still Miss You, Rufus”

I Still Miss You, Rufus

Remembering when I was in kindergarten is hard

Besides all the parts when we used to play in the school play yard

Holding hands as we walk back up from lunch

Making friends whose names … Read More

Fiction: “Just Another Day”

My blaring alarm shakes me violently out of my sleep. I lazily slam my hand onto it to shut the damn thing up. I miss the first time and groan. I hit it repeatedly, still not opening my eyes, until … Read More

Poem: “Hands Up”

Put your hands up,

Mommy needs to help you put on your shirt.

Put your hands up,

Simon says so.

Put your hands up,

This is your favorite summer jam.

Put your hands up,

The teacher won’t let you answer … Read More

Prose Poem: “Breaking News”

“In Breaking News, today there has been a school shooting. 13 people have been killed and 24 people have been wounded.” On April 20, 1999, the nation felt the first wrath of horror. The students of Columbine High School thought … Read More

Fiction: “Shears”

When I pictured my death, I never thought it would occur in a supply closet surrounded by dirty mops and cleaning agents. When I pictured my first school fight, I never thought I’d have to arm myself with a pair … Read More

Fiction: “When It Happens”

The first time it happens, Caleb has no idea what’s happening, but Tafida clearly seems to be in the hang of this, and she tries curling herself into his chest. He looks down and realizes her breathing is erratic, and … Read More

Fiction: “My Sister’s Texts”

I am telling you this is real. I promise. I can’t go through any of that again. Let me take you back, you need to believe me.

I woke up yesterday morning, brushed my teeth, got dressed… everything normal. I … Read More

Fiction: “My Ghost”

To My Ghost,

It was nice to see you again today, and I promise, I will find a name for you soon. Today, I had a super long day at work, but I’m glad to be home now to … Read More