it drizzles and my dreams fizzle

out of existence. the thunder shocks

him into sleeplessness. the conscious

of a lightning strike pinpoints itself at the

epicenter of his heart so that I too

would feel the shock of California rain.

I can’t sleep. downpour drags golden sunsets

through golden gates and it bleeds red.

where have the golden gone? a rain drops,

kisses his skin. a shard of diamond pierces

his adam’s apple. the rainstorm won’t quiet.

the depths of hurricanes cry. the cold,

cold rain washes away the red. leaves

behind clouds. leaves swirl through

the wind and laugh at themselves. the clouds

disperse and I curse my own foolishness.

shower me in his sweat and tears, and

make me a heathen before you drag him

to heaven and toss me away. broken ragdolls

can still laugh, sometimes. flattering eyes,

shatter my dreams. I want to be brave.

David Chen is a senior studying at Phillips Exeter Academy. His work has been recognized by YoungArts, the Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, and Novelly, among others. He is also a member of the Aster Lit Team and enjoys cooking and Mock Trial.