"Paper Hearts" is a reflective poem about the transition from childhood innocence to the complexities of adulthood. It contrasts the joy of exchanging paper hearts in elementary school with the emotional distance and resentment that can grow over time. Through vivid imagery and poignant metaphors, the poem explores themes of nostalgia, lost connections, and the quiet loneliness that often replaces youthful laughter. A heartfelt piece that will resonate with anyone who has ever wondered when friendships began to fade."

Paper Hearts

I remember giving out
paper hearts in elementary school.
I remember running out
to BDUBS just to act a fool.

The older we get,
the more we fret—
perhaps it's less fear, more resentment.
Isolated from friendships,
we set sail on tiny islands,
adrift in a vast ship
built to hold a thousand.

When did we morph laughter
into silent, sharp darts?
When did we start throwing daggers
instead of exchanging paper hearts?


Submitted: February 25, 2025

© Copyright 2025 Betty Caprelli. All rights reserved.

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