Normal Carousel Mind

text by ellis shyamji

As a kid growing up in this highly strung town, Pencils scratching is the most common sound. They work tirelessly to be more than normal, From what people say, being average Just sounds horrible.

They say you can’t just be “normal” That won’t get you far enough

When this world, this society, is just so rough. Average people don’t make it Anywhere extraordinary.

Oh how boring it is when you’re just so ordinary.

They have expectations

But you have to exceed them. You’re asking for help?

No, you don’t need them. Just focus on work and keep your head down–keep on swimming and try not to drown.

Look at where you live, Those big names that lived here. Yes, you’re just a kid, But if you’re average you’ll disappear.

I force myself to remember That anywhere else I could just be plain normal And satisfied with myself.

Ellis Shyamji is a freshman at Paly who is passionate about expressing feelings and stories people can relate to in her writing. Currently, she most enjoys creating flash fiction and poetry.

text by cherianne yoon

My mind is a carousel. Always going up and down, Forever spinning, never stopping.

Each train of thought is different: Some thoughts are fleeting horses, Some are gloomy zebras, Some are singing rabbits, Some are weary lions. At rare times they are wayward dragons, Flying high with no one to listen to.

But even in their difference, they strive for the same: To preserve infinite youth, Innocence and memories.

My mind ting-a-lings with delight, Feeling the ups and downs of life.

Cherianne Yoon is a sophomore who has a passion for creative writing, reading, and digital art, and she always tries to fit in these hobbies in her busy schedule. Her favorite authors include Marie Lu and Marissa Meyer.

art by leif thesen

text by simone batra

photo by vivian lin