everything within me has been released

We really appreciate Ravinder Johal’s decision to share ‘Classical’ with us. As Ravinder explains, the poem illustrates both her love of music and ‘how performing is a truly unique, euphoric experience, and the overwhelming emotions involved in every performance.’ Ravinder is currently studying at Sixth Form, and is a very creative person. Visit her blog at: mytakeonthis1.blogspot.com. Thank you again Ravinder for supporting our project.

Classical

I take the bow between the tips

of my fingers,

pressing down hard on the strings

as I try not to cry,

try not to feel too much,

try to dumb down my feelings

into a spark,

and try to channel that spark

as I sway, left to right,

playing solo violin for once in my life –

*

the applause shatters me.

I well up, give up, give in –

everything within me has been released,

and with a rush of euphoria,

I say,

‘I have nothing to give, and nothing to take:

that’s just how it goes,

when you’re in love with the music you make.’

Ravinder Johal, aged 17

Did you enjoy this poem? Why not visit Maggie’s website at: Maggie’s Centre Nottingham to find out more about their exceptional work and/or make a donation. Do you have a poem you would like to submit to Voices? Feel free to do so by email at: voicespoetry@outlook.com or via the ‘Contact’ page on this site.