Stand on your toes, ballerina;
You are small.
A quick craft of cheap plastic,
You’re not much at all.
Sing a song, ballerina,
Just sing along.
This is not what you were made for;
You are not that strong.
Spin around, ballerina,
Before it all locks.
Enjoy the monotonous motions
Within your box.
Stand up tall, ballerina;
Show them your worth.
As the bones in your back break,
Pretend it doesn’t hurt.
Painted plastic,
Painted glass.
Oh, broken ballerina,
Will you last?
Does the song go on too long,
Or does it fade far too fast?
What thoughts go through your mind
As you dance?
Does the music soothe you,
In your little wooden box?
Buried deep beneath the dirt,
Does it rot?
Garza Independence High School
12