Ice

By Calliope Cuomo

In a world of spun ice and blinding lights,

I step onto the frozen canvas, a solitary artist,

Eager to trace my tale upon the glacial stage.

The crowd hums in anticipation, a chorus of whispers,

Eyes fixed, hearts beating in rhythm with mine,

As I glide into the embrace of destiny’s breath.

Each edge carved in the cold heart of the rink,

Whispers secrets of sacrifice and dreams,

My body, a vessel for grace and power combined.

The echo of music cascades through my being,

A symphony that syncs with the rhythm of my soul,

As I mold it into movements, a dance of sheer determination.

The ice beneath my blades is both my ally and foe,

Unyielding yet fluid, demanding yet forgiving,

I tread carefully, a tightrope walker in a crystal universe.

Spins and jumps punctuate the silent air,

Gravity defied, a fleeting moment of weightlessness,

In that fraction of time, I soar, and my spirit rejoices.

The judges scribble their critiques, a silent jury,

Grading my artistry and skill, a surreal verdict,

But my true judge is the echo of my beating heart.

And as the final note fades into the quiet air,

I take my bow, a curtsy to fate and to myself,

For in this frozen arena, I am both sculptor and sculpture.

Biography

My name is Calliope Cuomo and I am a sophomore. I enjoy anything that has to do with being at the rink which is why my piece was about figure skating. I am also student manager for our varsity ice hockey team.

What is your main source of inspiration?

My passion and love for skating.

Why did you choose to submit to this category of writing out of the many category options?

I like free verse because I’m able to just write, no rhyme or reason.

How do you resonate with your piece? Why is it personal to you?

It portrays both the beautiful parts and the ugly parts of skating. Sometimes it’s hard but when you’re skating and you feel free, it’s worth it.