Category: Creative writing
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War
This poem reflects on a childhood shaped by conflict hidden behind the appearance of a normal family. In public, the father is charming and admired, present at recitals and quick to play the role of the attentive parent. At home, however, arguments and blame fill the space, and the child…
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The Hard Parts
The hardest part of a deep connection is the physical memory it leaves behind. It’s the way a scent or a shadow pulls you back to the start, even when you’re trying to move forward. You can “play it smart,” but the heart doesn’t always follow the rules.
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On Your Sixth Birthday
Six years ago, I met the little lion who made me a mother. In this tribute to my firstborn, I reflect on the ache, the awe, and the hilarious meltdowns that shaped our journey, because raising Grayson has been equal parts joy, chaos, and love deeper than I ever imagined…
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B-52 Bar and Lounge
Bob made a choice he couldn’t take back, and the people who love him are left to question why. It’s not about closure. It’s about what’s left behind.
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The Silenced
Through the fire and chaos, I see you engulfed in the flames. Wearing the weight of the world on your shoulders. I hate to see crying Natives to these lands No one can see, nor hear your cries. Fists slammed against glass, nowhere to hide. We all look in on…
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Silent Blooms
Day after day I pray for good news. A sign of life’s presence past the toxicity brewing in here. One foot in front of the next, She postures– Feathers smoothed as the sun peeked through. Moving toward the Magnolia tree, Branches stretched, With late blooms reaching their peak. I’ve sat…
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Box for Two
Her head slid down the side of the glass The coolness of nature firmly pressed into the back of her neck She lay perplexed. Her face pained, Afraid to release the sounds that caused this tremor. She gazed out the window, Watched the cars whizzing down the freshly paved street.…
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Blaze
Late at night, when the world is asleep, My mind races through your hoops. My chest rises and falls with each exasperated breath. I can’t breathe without you. The sun accompanies morning coffee The moon brightens darkened hallways Entangled within this web Strand after silky strand, They weave themselves around…
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Reflection
As I slowly approach the dirty thirty train, I sit back and think about my life thus far. I expected to be married with a kid or two and finished with my degree in journalism, while working in the field. A minuscule frown forms on my face as I realize…
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Take a step back
I have been having a lot of disturbing emotions lately about everything that has been going on in the world lately. My heart feels heavy and I feel the pain from all sides of the spectrum. I have been having vivid premonitions and we as a people…
Nicole Johnson 