The following is a writing submission to Homewood High School’s literary and creative magazine The Menagerie.

“Dancing with Passion” by Ayana Thompson

Twist and turns

Till my calves burn 

Leaps and jumps

While my blood pumps

Working my way to pointe shoes 

While I feel the rhythm blues 

My smile just as bright as the stage lights 

Dancing under the city lights 

Strutting down the side walk in black tights 

Arms swing side to side like a seesaw

In opposition with my legs 

While standing on the wooden peg of the pointe shoe

As my instructor brings my leg straight up to the sky 

Dance makes me want to fly