Student Publishing Program ::

Mika E.

Stage Fright

Faceless figures sit staring -

unmoved, eyes glazed over.

I want to captivate them,

make them smile, lose them in the music.

I can imagine myself -

bright stage lights and squinty eyes -

timid and awkward presence.

Losing my solidity, my body evaporating -

leaving me.

I look back at my group -

calm and collected.

Me? Palms moist, voice trembling.

My mind, racing - full of thoughts -

Will I reach that note? Will those figures applaud?

I feel my cheeks turn pink -

fear dampens my face with a warm sweat.

Walking up to the mic,

the music starts…

I’ve forgotten the words.

[BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS, CLASS OF 2007 EDITION]

Copyright © 2002-2006 Student Publishing Program (SPP). Poetry and prose © 2002-2006 by individual authors. Reprinted with permission. Contents photo from LHS Yearbook Staff. SPP developed and designed by Strong Bat Productions.