July
Eloisa L.
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In the grey area I call Asian American culture, we have a unique tradition of never saying sorry. Our culture of silence demands we give random offerings instead, often cut up fruit. I took this silence, and imbued into both poems, centering each one on one fruit, and an amalgamation of different memories. These poems are not meant to demean or ridicule the countless Asian Americans who have these behaviors instilled into them—instead, I urge readers to examine their own behavior, and the cyclic nature of the Asian American culture of silence.
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Creativity is the vibrance of life. It has a remarkable ability to inspire emotion, and thus, catharsis. It also serves to uplift voices that may otherwise be silent. To me, creativity’s capacity to inspire—emotions and voices—has always enriched my days, teaching me to enjoy every blessing and obstacle I encounter.