by Genevieve Frander, 14
The burden of expectations ties a rope around my chest
Taut around my breasts
Emotions I’ve repressed
Gasping for air of approval
Validation-deprived and depressed
This self-fullfilling prophecy
Leaves puffy, tear-stained cheeks
Alone in the dark I sit and wonder
Am I capable?
Am I weak?
Silence echoes in response
As I curse the recognition I seek
It feels as though I’m trapped in a hole
It’s as dismally deep as my soul
I stare up incredulously
Ignoring the irony
It is I who grasps the shovel
Barrington, Rhode Island
This piece won SECOND PLACE in our 2026 Voice & Verse Writing Contest, poetry ages 12-14 category.
Judge’s Note: I personally loved this poem as it shows the reality that there are a lot of expectations from us and that can be difficult.
Bridge Ink 