The author of this poem is Natalie Russell, Assistant Curator of Literary Collections at the Huntington Library in San Marino, CA. I was captivated when I heard her read it and asked to share with you. Thank you for your permission, Natalie. It’s a beautiful work.

                                                                 Why I Write

I write
because the paper listens.

I write
because no matter what oceans of grief, and rage, and anxiety, and sorrow overflow my soul,
the paper is a sponge.
It receives my burden,
tucks it away,
and opens its arms for more.

I write
because I worry
that human ears are too busy,
hearts too full,
souls too consumed,
to have time for my small crises.
But the paper listens.

I write
because the paper listens
and is no worse for the wear.

I write because sometimes the paper speaks,
when the reader is ready and willing to hear.

I write
because the paper always listens.

Why do you read?

Natalie Russell
Assistant Curator of Literary Collections
Huntington Library