Inspired by Rilke’s Letters To A Young Poet, Letters To A Young Poetess is the feminized and updated homage by Kiki Tom and Gabriella Calabia. Beginning a written correspondence upon being paired as mentor and mentee, the two delve into sharing thoughts, questions and feelings about writing and what it takes to share one’s voice.
Hopeful
Bright Eyes
This poem is dedicated to all the women out there who struggle with the stress of parenting but are still able to find the love that comes from it.
Capes and Cancer
Coming of age is a painful process for all of us—even superheroes. In my story, I learn to embrace that pain and find a few superpowers along the way.
Her, An Indian Girl
“Her, An Indian Girl” reaches out to girls who may feel low about their appearance or features. It teaches her to love how she looks and how she has been crafted.
Her, A Constellation
All of us are beautiful. Our scars and fears should be valued as much as the parts we love. Since we are human all of us have imperfections and they are not something we should be embarrassed of but something we should love.
Growing Up
This is the story of Alani, an abused girl who is taken away from her mother by Child Protective Services and finds herself in a “living hell.” To get by, she lies.
Cerulean Summer
If you’ve delved into the addiction of nostalgia these days, you can relate to this recurring poem and its story of two children spending their last summer together.
If Only You Knew
Subconscious writes a letter to assure Natalie of the doubts she has about her self-worth.
The Deception of Roses: Chapter 4
This excerpt picks up at the start of chapter four. Our two main characters, Winifred and Bernie, are departing from their train, and must run separate errands around the city of Manchester.
The Journey
During these times, I learned how important it is to find happiness in the small moments. Reflecting on life pre-pandemic, I was inspired to write about the little things in life that bring me joy.
Night Swimming at Summer Camp in New Hampshire
The girls swim in the lake at summer camp. It is the only place around them that is cool.
I’m Happy
A piece that has been waiting too long to say what needed to be said, out loud and to the world. Regardless of everything that has happened this year, I’m happy to be alive!
The King of Hearts
The King of Hearts is random from a deck of cards where truly the title is meaningless but the poem somehow makes it seem relevant.
Pandemic Letters: The Wind or a Leaf Stuck to the Sidewalk
After reading the poetic correspondence between Natalie Diaz and Ada Limón entitled “Envelopes of Air,” we decided to write poetic letters to one another, which naturally interrogated our feelings and thoughts during a pandemic.
COVID Rewind: Thoughts & Reflections
A look into 2020 through the diverse eyes of interviewees from New York City. These interviewees describe their thoughts and experiences living through the pandemic.