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Duck on Water

Charlotte H,
New York, NY

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By Kim L., El Dorado, KS

The pastel colors create a tranquil atmosphere.
The scene is peaceful.
The sun is paused low in the sky,
as a warm breeze gently sways the reeds,
and gracefully sweeps across the top of the otherwise still water.

Then you look deeper.
You see past the obvious.
You see the tension, the careful control.
You see the falseness of the entire scene.

The still water hides the piranhas, waiting to devour your spirit.
Creatures crouch in the brush, poised,
constantly searching for the most advantageous moment to pounce
and knock you off your feet.
The once gentle breeze suddenly turns into a gale,
blowing obstacles in your path,
making you fight for every step you take.

Determination is the only thing stopping you from giving up.
You realize you are one of the lucky ones
who can see through the mask.

This piece has also been published in Teen Ink's monthly magazine.

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