Sunayna Pal's poetry graces the pages of numerous international journals, anthologies, museums, poetry festivals, textbooks, and libraries, resonating with readers worldwide. Her debut book, Refugees in Their Own Country (B&W Fountain), narrates the Partition of India through verse and illustrations. Her second book, Please Go to the Park (Bottlecap Press), is an invitation to embark on a journey of self-discovery. As the Director of the Poetry Academy, Sunayna nurtures a deep appreciation for poetry in others. She is dedicated to Heartfulness meditation. For a deeper insight into her work and journey, please visit sunaynapal.com. She lives in Maryland with her family.
I cut my toe
for the first time
watched blood spill from my body
proof that I could break
Panicked I ran to Papa
napping in the stillness of noon
shook him awake
My small voice trembling
expecting comfort
some care
Why disturb me
This is the only sleep I get all-day
For a small toe?
I stood there
silent
the sting of his scolding
sharper than the pain in my toe
Blood dried
Something else stayed raw