Ashlee Milkins, 15, Capel

A Reality Not Just a Dream


The curtains open.
Breathe in. Sharp. Quick.
Feel the heat of the spotlight.
Burning Bright
Your painted face makes the scene.
Listen to your voice echo through the hall.
Disembodied from your words.

Eyes flash in the mirror.
Black eyes, rouged cheeks.
Recite the words again.
No audience to tend
Unheard.
Unnoticed.

The spotlight burns once again
Words reverberate through your being,
Surging out into the crowded space.
Breathe in. Take a bow. Exhale.
Stand proud and strong.
Hear applause. Feel applause.