#5: Ode to Music

Oliver Goff

#4: Ode to No

Angelina Ortiz

The word “no” stands firm, a guardian bold,
In a world that often seeks to mold.
It shields our time, our dream, our heart,
From paths that tear our soul apart.

A simple word, yet strong and sure,
It keeps our boundaries safe and pure.
Unappreciated, yet its power is vast,
It helps us find our way, steadfast

So honor “no,” for it paves the way,
To live our truth, come what may.

#3: Ode to Chocolate Milk

Miguel Dania

#2: Ode to Rain

Somara Wilkinson

Oh gentle rain, you grace the earth,
with droplets kiss upon the ground,
A symphony of soothing sound
you dance upon the leaves and trees,
A whisper carried by the breeze.
In silver threads, you weave a tale,
Of natures love, so pure and pale.
Your presence brings a calm embrace,
To every heart, to every place.
Oh rain, dear rain, you softly fall,
A gift of life, a balm of all.

#1: Ode to Rain

Nawaf Kassem

Though your cold tears trickle from the heavens,
saturating the earth and wilting the dianthus;
accompanied by crisp petrichor—
gloomy clouds and shades of gray blind the imperial eye.

Though they dread it’s abundance:
Droplets of bliss and misery,
their beseeching palms are elevated to implore you,
calling upon your blessed caress over the arid land.

Though tendrils of darkness and greed engulf you,
Poison and envy lurking beneath your eyes:
Ravenous pupils as thunderous skies—
Repulsive beauty.

I find solace in your distress, though.
When the world is made mum,
and your grief envelops puddles
I heed the patter in the mirrors you’ve forged

• Category: Literature, Poetry, Prose, Writing Contests