January Poetry Compilation

The Sunstroke Monthly Poetry Compilation is a collection of poetry submitted by Sunstroke readers and staff members. Take a seat, light a candle, grab a cup of tea, and dive into the intricate words of our community.

Submit to future compilations at hello@sunstrokemagazine.com!

By Michael Lee, featuring Erica Givans

Floor Thoughts by Ciera Couto

i induce my own headaches by crying on the floor to the same seven songs every friday night

i leave the pills in their bottle so i can feel at home in my sadness

never at home in my body – it’s embarrassed of itself, red bumps all over like it’s blushing from mortification 

i buy books just to let them sit as a i sit on my screens 

waiting for words of encouragement or love

they arrive but not often enough for my doubts to hold still

my nights looked different last year

neon lights have been replaced with candles that won’t run out on me

smiling faces replaced with none at all

no worries replaced with fifteen hundred of them 

best friends replace you with new best friends

and that’s how friday nights are supposed to look in your early twenties

right?

c.c.

---

Help Me Predict a Continuous End by Colin James

I have been scared by the venetian blinds.
My tan is horizontally oblique.
I have stood here for too long
expecting no one, presently.
I curse the pond across the way I should be kissing.
Not noticing the slightest movement
nor pondering its practicality,
I am within bounds.
The rules are simple yet precise,
stay indoors.

The Magic of Hospitality by Faith Monroe

I should be enjoying the early suns yellow splendor- 

But I am already being harassed by some park attender. 

I forget the basics to wave and smile.

I’m a cast member, supposed to go the extra mile.

The toys stand out front faces all gleaming

But a theme park is hardly what you might be dreaming. 

Dressed in bright reds and blues I might look the part.

Could you tell this job is slowly killing my heart?

My eyes scan over the family of ten. 

They're already thinking they can get me to bend.

They have their messy kids all hysterically screaming. 

“Sir, I’m sorry you don't have the fast pass you claim to be redeeming.”

He puffs out his chest, cheeks turning pepper red.

I roll my eyes, damn I wish I was in bed. 

Should I call a leader to keep them at bay?

Ugh never mind, they’ll take the guests side anyday. 

“What’s your name? I’m going to guest relations!”

I cover my nametag with hair exactly for these kind of situations. 

My finger hovers over Grant Access.

Do I really want to give them the stupid passes?

Well I am only making 12.50 in pay.

And no matter what, they will have their way.

So Fuck it. 

“You’re welcome, oh-

And Have a Magical Day.”