Learning To Read
Learning to read, learning to write,
I was full of frustration, I had to get it right,
I was full of confusion; I didn’t feel that bright
I’m not going to lie; I was getting it tight.
Letters from my girlfriend I’d wonder what they say,
They’re coming in the post every other day.
Does she still love me? Is she ok?
I need to ease my mind so I practice every day.
I got a pen and paper, and a few CDs
I blocked out the words and listened to the beats
A mind full of rhythm, I write it on a sheet,
As I think about home the words started to flow,
Scribbles on a page only I’d know,
Each and every day my learning style grows
I never went to school, it could be worse,
I can block out the lyrics and write my own verse
I’d bang on my door, I’d shout and curse.
I was locked up in prison through learning I’d leave
Always be creative and have self-belief
If you put your mind to it, anything can be achieved
As my book opens, my world is revealed.
HMP Magilligan
3rd Prize Short Story Getting Started, Listowel Writing in Prison Awards, 2020
Commended Award for Poetry, Prison Awards, Koestler Arts, 2020
Showcased at John Hewitt Digital Festival of Literature & Ideas, Northern Ireland, Prison Arts Foundation, 2020
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