By Lucy Tian '22
I. gray linoleum
warped plastic and pencil thin scratches
shower caddies leave transparent rings
time and time again
secrets unspoken and wisdom found by
countless miles walked upon it
II. fiery sunset
lonely work takes off under the night
do not draw near
cruel rays hide sight and warmth
clinging to tears on linoleum gray
III. weary boots
outlined in melting snow
salt pools and crusts
in storms upon storms
crystals scratching under a cold day
frigid air steals precious breath
IV. yellow sandals
carry fleeting reprieve to the day
take them off
cold toes remember how to dig deep
press in to be washed by gray linoleum
Illustration by Helena Suh '23