Silent Serenade by Nafisa Rahman (New York, 16)

​Don’t forget the world,
Where you most matter.
Beneath the rough wood--
Windows that only shatter.
The pieces fit so seamlessly,
As if they were never touched.
Infinitely and intimately,
The gold rush has just begun.
There is no map and certainly no treasure,
For the knots have been buried
For years and years,
Under misread measures.

There are no more daydreams or pretty words,
Souls don’t tie and skies aren’t filled with birds.
You have sleepless eyes,
And nowhere to be tonight.
The moon is no longer your friend,
And the cracks in the pavement make it hard to lie.
But, you are alright.
They have taken your tears--
Painted you as a sin,
But you will always have the whispers--
Silence of the forgotten girls within.





Nafisa Rahman is a young writer from Long Island, New York. As a Bengali immigrant, Nafisa
draws inspiration from her rich cultural background, infusing her writing with unique
perspectives and experiences. Currently, as a rising high school senior, Nafisa is set to graduate
in 2024. Her dedication to academics and creative writing has allowed her to maintain a high
honor roll position and place 1st in her school’s writing contest, Ethnic Pen. Beyond her literary
pursuits, Nafisa is an active member of her community, engaging in social justice services and
programs, like the Youth Justice Leadership Program with Women’s Diversity Network and the
High School Advocacy Program with Planned Parenthood. She values the power of words and
believes in the transformative impact that storytelling can have on individuals and communities.
As Nafisa prepares to embark on the next chapter of her academic journey, she remains
committed to advancing her craft and pursuing her passion for writing. With a promising future
ahead, Nafisa Rahman hopes to make a lasting impact on the literary landscape.