Angelina From the very first time we heard Angelina’s writing, we acknowledged it was beyond beautiful. She crafts her words into beautiful images, that of like a painting. Embedded with both pain and hope her words are important and deserve your attention.

I am an inmate.
My name is Angelina.
My number is 678712.
The number of a single mistake.
And one I must wear for life.

Cyndi She was reluctant in the beginning, afraid to share, afraid to write. Yet weeks passed, and gradually her courage swelled, like a massive ocean wave building strength and ferocity. The floodgates opened for her and she has been unstoppable since.

One thing I know is pain, one thing I learned was survival. No matter the pain this world sends I will never be weak, my will never broken. I will never know as a girl what I was supposed to be. As a woman, I stand unbreakable

Lisa A woman of deep heritage, her writing is infused with Native American culture and terminology. She is fierce in writing, yet gentle in spirit.

Down a dirt road so winding Away from the outside world Unknowing and hiding A dance ground is alive and breathing, Breathing life into its people.

Mary In the first few weeks of class, she was often quiet and willing to participate but did not share her poetry. As the weeks went by she began to blossom. As she has opened herself up, she has transformed our classes, and her writing is powerful.

I stand in front of the mirror today in “Awe” of who I have become. To see the many changes, the strength, the integrity, courage, bravery, I have to say, wow, it really can happen.

Tina She is full youth, yet her writing showcases experience and cherished pieces of her life. Often times she is one of the most affirming to the other women in our writing classes. Always ready with encouraging heartfelt words.

I desire the storms monstrosity
It looks like my past
So large, both, haunting, tragic
I am small like the rain, we both fall fast.

Sharon She has a subtle disposition, but is full of wit, experience, and authenticity. Just as her long single braid suggests, she is gruff but tender.

Watching the sun setting on the waves
Gleaming the colors of fantasy orange
Red, blue, yellow gleaming across the Ocean waters
Its illumination off the bow
At a distance I hear the whales, singing their love song of their freedom

Annette She has lived many days both inside and outside of the razor wire fence. Discouraged and intimidated initially by the writing process, she has grown and changed into a vivid, dynamic poet.

Orange? I hate orange
Now gray, that’s ok
I have a bunk in a room
With 75 other women
Women are weird, huh?

Erica She frequently goes by “E” in our classes, but brings a presence of light and fullness far beyond that one letter. Young in age and heart, but often writes with tact and reflection.

Aw rage, like a parasite, you’ve taken me over. Like weeds in the grass, overgrown with clover. But now, rage you must get off my back. Because the spirit is here and I’m staying on track.

Angelina From the very first time we heard Angelina’s writing, we acknowledged it was beyond beautiful. She crafts her words into beautiful images, that of like a painting. Embedded with both pain and hope her words are important and deserve your attention.

I am an inmate.
My name is Angelina.
My number is 678712.
The number of a single mistake.
And one I must wear for life.

Learn more about Poetic Justice