small talk with atlas | Teen Ink

small talk with atlas MAG

August 17, 2016
By TessM. GOLD, Lake Zurich, Illinois
TessM. GOLD, Lake Zurich, Illinois
14 articles 0 photos 16 comments

Favorite Quote:
"Even if it's Friday and I've been working on not falling apart all week, it is still Friday!"


i came across atlas the other day.
she is pale, but looking well.
staying in the city with family, she says.
she asks me how i’ve been.
i tell her my summer’s just ending,
academia calls, i say.
she laughs and says she understands.
after a moment’s pause, i remember,
and i ask how she is.
she says,
(i am chasing sleep.
the tragedies of those around me
have become my own.
told i am a blessing
so that my pride can be used
to drive me forward
and wear me down.
i am ragged. i am raw.
and all i have to show
is the poetry i write to plead with those
whose bodies i carry to the sky
in the hopes that all they need is light.
be it known that i am still standing.
but if i take another step
i will die.)
i’m fine.


The author's comments:

Atlas is a girl with a lot on her mind.


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This article has 3 comments.


on Aug. 23 2016 at 1:12 am
Nated315 DIAMOND, Georgetown, New York
92 articles 7 photos 105 comments

Favorite Quote:
Truth has many shades. It's not a matter of black and white, but many grays.

i'm glad when i can brighten someone's day, especially when they deserve it. :)

TessM. GOLD said...
on Aug. 22 2016 at 1:02 pm
TessM. GOLD, Lake Zurich, Illinois
14 articles 0 photos 16 comments

Favorite Quote:
"Even if it's Friday and I've been working on not falling apart all week, it is still Friday!"

Thank you so very much!! That means the world! I've been writing for about ten years now. I hope you know your comment honestly made my morning!

on Aug. 22 2016 at 9:08 am
Nated315 DIAMOND, Georgetown, New York
92 articles 7 photos 105 comments

Favorite Quote:
Truth has many shades. It's not a matter of black and white, but many grays.

soo deep and powerful! i feel lots of emotions when i read this piece!!!! you deserve editor's choice!!!! how long have you been writing???