Standards

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