by Grace Pappadellis ’29 on February 12, 2026
Portfolio - Poetry
I used to walk for a long time,
before I knew of swiftness.
I was not familiar with the plan I could possess,
where these new, lithe strides could lead.
A developed cognizance for the satisfaction,
discomfort, strenuity, contemplative hours.
I ache for the slow grind, but I move quicker than expected.
All the strain, the choice to fly instead of merely flutter,
It does me well.
I can appreciate the flap of thoughtful wings,
walking will stay in the ambit of my movement.
Nothing will exert me, like the twist of my torso, the reliant trace of my eager
bounds.
I run now because walking could never suffice,
I’ll always control this,
the distance, my legs slicing across the pavement, scooping out my insides,
I tumble along, I trust myself wholly.
To run is to have the privilege of feeling complete,
even when you are overcome by the thrumming,
riotous uphills,
you’ll always meet the downhill, you’ll be relieved,
But you’ll trust, she’s forever there.
To run is to know the harmonious end,
singing and surging through your red-hot ears.