Allow the symphonic undertones of the poem to draw you into the emotions of an intimate dinner party. How do we exist in spaces we feel driven from?

late for a dinner I didn’t want to attend

my heart races as I enter the bustling restaurant

the noise is engrossing, but nothing drowns out my fear

half eaten entrees and restless glances greet me at the table

the symphonic drum of laughter and forks clashing halts to a stop

his voice bellows, sinking the cheerful voices of families dining nearby

breathing in panic, I feel myself shrink, desperate to disappear in my seat

seeking relief in the cold orange chicken

taillights illuminate hastened goodbyes

darkness envelops the long drive home

feeling empty, alone with my silent tears

Process

This work answers the prompt “late for an event I didn’t want to attend.” Based on the community studio that challenged me with this prompt, I reflected on my experiences and created this piece. My objective with this poem was to capture the full emotions of that bittersweet night. I wanted readers to feel like they were there. Through careful revisions and feedback from my mentor, Ellen Alexander, this goal was accomplished.