"Draw My Heart Out" by Helena Grand Center Arts Academy City of St. Louis, MO Read the poems of every 2015 winner at www.7gp.org. The 7th Grade Poetry Foundation (7GP) is transforming young lives and their classrooms through writing. We provide free school-based poetry contests to every 7th grade student, in every type of school, in every community.

"Draw My Heart Out"

Helena
Grand Center Arts Academy
St. Louis City, MO


As I open my sketchbook, it is quite a thrill
I gather my emotions, unravel my skills.
The sharp soft lead, contrast—the style
I outline each and every detail—warning—it takes a while.
The sun goes down; I look through my book,
I check my wristwatch—look at all the time I took!
My fingers are dirty-tired, no doubt,
I have a great sensation when I draw my heart out.

But I won’t stop now; I keep my mood up,
And I won’t stop drawing till daybreak erupts.
The action, style, the curves of her eyes
For art isn’t a skill, a habit to my surprise.
And when I show the world my piece, inside and out,
They will be astonished how well I draw my heart out.