STEM Academy Poets – Akshara Ravi

By: Staff Writer

Recently, some students submitted their original poetry to an international writing contest sponsored by the Young Writers, Remus House Publishing Company in the UK and were published in their 2021 anthology, Through their Eyes – Rhymes on Fire.

Akshara Ravi, grade 12, was awarded publication with her poem entitled, The Darkness That Always Follows the Light.

Question: Akshara, what was your inspiration for your poem?

Akshara: I drew a lot of my inspiration from BTS songs, which usually talk about self-love or societal expectations that pressure people. Ever since I was a child, I always saw stereotypes being made about people based on their behavior, job, education, and race and I wanted to speak against them. This poem talks about how I am, although grateful, unhappy with the expectations set upon me as the oldest child in my family. I have always tried to make everyone happy with my decisions but now I have come to accept that I am my own person and make choices based on my likes and dislikes and this poem is a representation of that realization. Some people are scared of defying the social standards and just try to fit in, so I chose a speaker with a voice that emphasizes the process of self-discovery and demonstrates a unique personality within a community of people bound by societal expectations.

Question: Akshara, how does your poem relate to your readers?

Akshara: This poem talks about the overall experiences of teenagers. I know many of my peers also face issues similar to those of the speaker, like trying to satisfy everyone and justify their character. This poem is for everyone who feels like they are bound by society and a reminder that the only thing holding them back is themselves. Finding a way to get over the fear of unacceptance will make people happier.

Question: Akshara, how do you feel about having your poem published?

Akshara: Getting this poem published was an honor as I feel as though I was able to talk about serious issues and encourage others to break free of their ‘chains’. Publishing this poem gave me an opportunity to represent the current problems teenagers face and inspire others to react positively. Creative writing is a way I express myself, and I plan on writing more in the future. This opportunity has only fueled my passion for poetry to new heights.