Current Issue 2026

My zipper clinks on the cold aluminum bench.

I hate when it does that-

the sound of two metals clashing frolics down the hallway, disturbing the peace.

I slide into a sitting position, fitting

like it’s a puzzle.

In the pseudo-silence, a chorus of buzzing light and

           tip-tap-typing

breathe to life, interrupted by the whirs of sliding doors.

I hate when it does that-

The announcement of entry, crashing like a cymbal in a solo.

Enter centerstage, a gaggle of gossip,

dancing back and forth to different mouths,

“I hate when it does that-”

The crescendo of careless conversation carries itself in echoes

careening heads away from books and screens.

Hearty laughter escapes their bubble with a pop-

I hate when they do that;

Distract my ears from the whispers of my book.

           Hush, hush!

I cannot hear the inky secrets opened before me.

Yet another interruption approaches;

the jingle-jangle of scholastic keychains and rustling of backpacks,

Preceding the reluctant clop of my unread chapter.