Self-portrait as reasons I write
because I can’t do math or science or play piano
anymore or remember & that means
I’m running out of options. because I like
the impossible sound of a typing speed
that isn’t going anywhere. because
I want my pens to drain of ink & to decorate
my room with unopened books.
because I’ll need to eat
eventually. because I promised my mother.
because I stutter when I talk, but I have
things to say sometimes. because I like to read
out loud to myself when no one else is
listening & nothing feels more trustworthy
than knowing what’s coming next.
because someone once told me I could.
because I was foolish enough to believe them.
because I love it. because I love a lot
& often. because I have to put it somewhere.
Noreen Ocampo (she/her) is a Filipina American writer and poet based in metro-Atlanta. She studies English, film, and media at Emory University and currently writes for COUNTERCLOCK and {m}aganda magazine. She is also a regular contributor for Marías at Sampaguitas. Say hi on Twitter @maybenoreen!
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