Artwork by Parker Wilson
“We haven’t seen you a while, Come home” Sorry mami no The textbooks have just uncuffed me Idleness a luxury I shouldn’t presume Duties the hands on a clock ticking Daughters in my culture return They’re like pilgrims circumambulating when they visit an apostle I love you, papi, and the dog But the love I think you expect is one I can’t carry It’s a twiggy shrub in the middle of the path That catches on my pants Pausing my trekking Before, I didn’t know that cotton-candy snow burns like flames Because you covered my hands with mittens Or that the sky is a massive obsidian curtain sprinkled with glitter Because my curfew was at eleven “Can I come with you?” Someday mami I have yet to discover You wouldn’t have let me Scramble that giant rock nature’s tower Grip jagged granite Feel the triumph at reaching its crown When overlooking the valley. I promise I will return I won’t forget you But I must make dreams memories All you wanted was the best for me To be proud of me But I need you to allow me To make myself proud too
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An engineer with a literary heart, Alicia Krasner is currently studying General Engineering and English Literature at Harvey Mudd College. She is passionate about the future of renewable energy and will begin her career in the solar industry post-graduation, with future sights set on an MFA. Alicia’s multidisciplinary approach is reflected in her accolades, which range from being a ‘PianoSlam 13’ champion to a finalist for the Gould Center’s ‘Illuminating Imagination.’ Her creative voice has also been published in the Agave Review.
Profiles:
Instagram: @aliciakrasner
