Tinacity

Take thy sword and shield in hand,

little tin soldier, oh brave black knight

Climb the ivory tower in this dark land

For your life, for mine, for theirs– you fight.

I’m sorry– Oh, the climb will be treacherous,

But your heart will stay golden and pure

And even though the world stays wild and dangerous,

Please take no shortcut or detour!

You’re a hero, my hero, I just know it

You’re courageous and clever, bold and brave

This outrageous endeavor, don’t outgrow it.

There are no more mistakes, no more sins, I forgave…

Oh– my tiny tin soldier,

This… is not your burden to shoulder.

About the Author

Jocelyn Royal is a senior Biology major with a minor in Creative Writing. They've been published before in Quiddity and Phantasm. They adore writing, and they're so glad they've gotten the chance to delve into their craft in their time here.