If I were Eleanor from “Eleanor and Park’’

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In a world that doesn't fit,

where the edges are sharp and the corners don't sit,

I am auburn and awkward, a misfitting piece,

in the jigsaw of high school, where comforts cease.

They say red is the color of passion and love,

but for me, it's the taunts from the grades above,

The ones blind to the fire that burns in my soul,

the dreams and desires that make me whole.

I am more than the clothes that don't quite cling right,

more than the whispers that follow at night,

I am Eleanor, fierce, with a heart set ablaze,

walking through life's unforgiving maze.

Park, he sees me, beyond the facade,

in his eyes, I'm not odd, not flawed,

he's the melody in a world out of tune,

the soft silver light of a benevolent moon.

But here, in this moment, it's just me and my voice,

and the power within, that formidable choice,

to rise from the ashes of ridicule's flame,

to own my story, my life, my name.

So let them stare, let them see what they will,

for I will remain unbroken still,

with every step, a path I compose,

where it leads, perhaps only the universe knows.