Ella Witney
I’m shrinking
the shoes I fill are big
the further I walk
the bigger they grow
the deeper they dig
they flop on the floor
flip me, topple me
I’m a child
shuffling around in
mum’s shoes
I’m shrinking
still
they grow
the sides are as tall as walls and I’m
left tongue-tied
No lace left hanging
To climb
The throat tightens
Laces snake around her collar
Pulling, pulling
Light of day a reach away
End it with a tight bow
Remember to double knot
Eyelets
Portholes to the outside
World teasing, beckoning
Lining scratch resistant
Evidence of restraint gone
Trapped in a leather prison with
nothing but a worn
sole for comfort
Author: Ella is a Brisbane-based writer and poet. Currently she is studying a Bachelor of Fine Arts, majoring in Creative Writing at Queensland University of Technology and works on the content team for ScratchThat magazine. As a third-generational member of Brisbane’s folk scene and an Irish Fiddler, Ella is inspired by traditions and lore, and is always on the look-out for what can be amended to better suit modern audiences. Her works include elements of fantasy, psychological, and horror, and explores the way mental health affects individuals
Artist: Cyndra Galea (she/they) is in the third year of her Bachelor of Fine Art’s in Creative Writing with a minor in Professional Communications. When not found with her head in a book or three, Cyndra can be found radioactive antique hunting, fixing classic cars with her dad, drawing on her iPad, or writing and editing her manuscript. Cyndra aims to work as a structural editor when she finishes her Masters of Editing and Publishing, but also dreams of releasing novels of their own.
Editors: Bea Warren and Euri Glenn