I Can Fly

By CP

Hills stretch into mountains
A squall is on the horizon
the chasm becomes the jaws of a beast
like rocky cliffs manifesting out of fog

Take hold
Light shining through a breach
Coveted land to a conqueror
Sails unfurling to ride the wind

Trembling caterpillars
metamorph butterflies in my stomach
At the apex
Wings unfold from my back

A smiling chapter in life
is worth a kingdom of fear
May gravity keep and deny
because I know

49 Comments

  1. Shivansh Mittal on September 13, 2024 at 12:50 PM

    It is very true to see that even one small moment of happiness is more powerful than an overwhelming amount of fear. It got me thinking that we should enjoy the little things in life because one day they may matter the most.

  2. Mary on September 14, 2024 at 11:53 AM

    This poem Is so powerful!
    The title, “I Can Fly” is a door inviting us to step into the unknown.
    When we take that brave step out into the open air — nothing under our feet — suddenly the movement from hope (hills stretching into mountains), to anxiety (a squall on the horizon), to terror (a chasm, rocky cliffs manifesting out of fog), to courage (take hold!), to relief and exhilaration ( light shining through a breach, sails unfurling), then back to anxiety (trembling caterpillars), then — so wonderfully — to butterflies and wings unfolding from my back — is simply breathtaking!! I, your reader, could feel it all, minute to minute. And then the poem resolves into a kind of calm confidence with the words “because I know.” This is a wonderful piece of work. I know I won’t forget it.

  3. Krishi on September 26, 2024 at 12:26 AM

    I like the imagery you created in this poem of you looking out into the distance and starting to fly. I interpret the flying as stepping out of your comfort zone and doing something different. I love the line “A smiling chapter in life is worth a kingdom of fear”- it is very touching.

  4. Ria Patel on September 26, 2024 at 12:46 PM

    This poem uses really strong imagery to show someone going from fear to freedom, like a caterpillar turning into a butterfly. The lines about wings unfolding and sailing through the wind make you feel like you’re actually flying. In the end, it’s all about facing your fears and realizing how much power you actually have.

  5. Korielle M on September 26, 2024 at 7:00 PM

    I love it, the imagery is beautiful and breathtaking. Hope bestowed upon me just by reading this job well done

  6. Sania on October 3, 2024 at 6:36 PM

    This poem has some really strong images and a nice flow. I like how it goes from a storm to the idea of butterflies, showing how change can be both scary and beautiful.

  7. Mike on October 4, 2024 at 4:55 PM

    CP this poem is excellent. You draw in such rich metaphor from nature and capture raw emotion so well. Please keep up the solid writing!

  8. TC on October 6, 2024 at 10:32 AM

    This is a really nice poem! It feels like a very nice piece about journey while using the imagery of nature like the mountains, rocky cliffs, caterpillars and butterflies bring life into the poem. I really like the lines a smiling chapter in life is worth a kingdom of fear. It shows how the challenges and fear of life is worth it to overcome for the memories and positive moments of life.

  9. Allan on October 6, 2024 at 10:09 PM

    Powerful imagery!

  10. Lucas on October 8, 2024 at 7:48 PM

    This poem powerfully captures the theme of transformation and overcoming fear. The imagery is vivid, painting a picture of daunting challenges—hills turning into mountains and chasms becoming beasts—yet the speaker approaches these obstacles with determination and courage. The metaphor of “butterflies in my stomach” transforming from trembling caterpillars suggests the anxiety and excitement that come with change, while the emergence of wings symbolizes newfound freedom and strength. The line “A smiling chapter in life is worth a kingdom of fear” beautifully conveys the idea that moments of joy and self-discovery far outweigh the fear of the unknown. The closing lines, which invoke both the embrace and defiance of gravity, leave a sense of triumph and self-assurance. It’s an inspiring reflection on embracing life’s challenges and realizing one’s potential to soar.

  11. Krishi on October 15, 2024 at 12:33 PM

    The imagery and metaphor created with this poem is beautiful and I really enjoyed reading it. My favorite line was “wings unfold from by back” since it emphasized the change in the main character.

  12. Travis on October 20, 2024 at 4:14 PM

    This poem beautifully captures a sense of transformation and the interplay between fear and hope.

  13. Tim Kuang on October 20, 2024 at 10:40 PM

    The speaker embraces change, knowing that fear holds less weight than the joy of newfound strength and possibility. Very meaningful!

  14. Mix Olson on October 24, 2024 at 3:27 PM

    CP, this is so beautiful. The descriptions are so immersive and detailed. I loved reading this hopeful piece.

  15. Olivia Hooge on October 26, 2024 at 11:18 PM

    This poem paints a picture of overcoming challenges and finding strength. It uses nature to show how fear can turn into confidence, like caterpillars becoming butterflies. It’s a reminder that facing fears can lead to happiness. I really loved this poem, you did an amazing job.

  16. Cole Jensen on October 27, 2024 at 2:43 PM

    CP, your poem grabbed my attention as I read a story I didn’t understand at first and was interested to learn something from it. Re-reading your descriptive imagery, helped me picture your journey and feel the positive aspect of change through challenging your fear and not giving up to get through to better things. I was especially captivated by “A smiling chapter in life is worth a kingdom of fear” and admired how empowering it comes across and the hope it gives to get through the rough changes in life. From the beginning there seems to be fearful obstacles that gravitate to you but show there’s reward to overcoming them. It was thought provoking and made me reminisce of the light that has found its way into my life and your inspiring resilience gives me confidence to keep sailing the unexpected.

  17. Beatrice Sampo on October 28, 2024 at 5:30 PM

    Your poem is a powerful exploration of transformation and resilience. The imagery of conquering landscapes and unleashing wings from a place of fear captures the courage it takes to embrace change. The line “A smiling chapter in life / is worth a kingdom of fear” resonates deeply, showing that moments of joy, however fleeting, outweigh even the greatest doubts. Thank you for sharing such a vivid, uplifting journey—it’s a reminder to press forward even through the fog.

  18. Emily on October 31, 2024 at 2:36 PM

    This is so meaningful, thank you for sharing!

  19. sanj on November 6, 2024 at 7:14 PM

    The imagery in this poem is so beautiful! You do a great job of capturing the emotions of relief and joy after overcoming a hard time, and how that aligns with metamorphosis. Thank you for sharing!

  20. Angad Minocha on November 6, 2024 at 7:15 PM

    This is so beautiful. It is so important to remain hopeful during a time of hardship. Simple instances in nature can invoke a strong sense of optimism.

  21. Anna C on November 7, 2024 at 9:03 PM

    Your poem paints a vivid picture of transformation and overcoming fear. The imagery of hills turning into mountains and the metamorphosis from caterpillars to butterflies beautifully captures the journey of growth and self-discovery. The line “A smiling chapter in life is worth a kingdom of fear” is especially resonant, emphasizing the value of joy and courage in the face of challenges.

  22. Mike on November 9, 2024 at 9:13 PM

    CP the imagery in your poem is powerful. It resonates because our emotions play our so strongly in our lives. Thank you for writing and I hope to read more from you.

  23. Ananya on November 12, 2024 at 11:45 AM

    I really understood what the author was trying to say. I love this!

  24. Amelia on November 13, 2024 at 11:49 PM

    Your poem captures the exhilarating journey of transformation and embracing fear. The imagery of metamorphosis and soaring is powerful, and the final line speaks to inner strength and resilience. It’s both inspiring and uplifting. Wonderful job, I loved reading this!

  25. Logan on November 17, 2024 at 9:19 PM

    Your poem paints a strong picture of facing fears and rising above them. The way you describe change and hope is really powerful. It’s a great reminder that better things can come after hard times. Thank you for sharing this!

  26. Mallorie Collins on November 17, 2024 at 9:46 PM

    Your poem is so vivid and full of emotion—it feels like standing at the edge of something huge, both exciting and terrifying. I love the way you use imagery, like rocky cliffs manifesting out of fog and wings unfold from my back. It paints a picture of transformation and courage, like you’re ready to face whatever comes next. That last line, because I know, is so powerful—it leaves a sense of quiet confidence. Keep writing; you’ve got a gift for capturing big feelings in such a beautiful way.

  27. Logan on November 17, 2024 at 9:47 PM

    I really enjoyed reading this, thank you for sharing!!!

  28. Quoc Nguyen on November 18, 2024 at 1:08 AM

    Your poem is vivid and full of emotion. I loved the line, “Trembling caterpillars/metamorph butterflies in my stomach,” because it captures the mix of fear and excitement perfectly.
    The ending, “A smiling chapter in life / is worth a kingdom of fear,” is so powerful and hopeful. It’s a great reminder to face challenges and embrace joy.

  29. Alyssa Cooper on November 19, 2024 at 11:22 PM

    This poem blends vivid imagery with a deep sense of transformation and personal growth. The opening lines—“Hills stretch into mountains / A squall is on the horizon / the chasm becomes the jaws of a beast”—create an amazing visual and emotional tension, as the landscape shifts from something serene to something ominous. The use of natural elements like mountains, fog, and sails adds a layer of both challenge and opportunity, mirroring the internal journey of the speaker.

    The metaphor of “Trembling caterpillars/metamorph butterflies in my stomach” is especially effective in conveying the nervous anticipation before transformation, and the imagery of wings unfolding is a powerful symbol of freedom and self-realization.

    The closing lines—“A smiling chapter in life / is worth a kingdom of fear”—are a poignant reminder of how confronting our fears can lead to growth and fulfillment. The contrast between fear and hope symbolized by the wings at the apex makes this poem both reflective and inspiring. Your choice of language throughout this poem ties everything together with a sense of both struggle and eventual triumph. This is a beautifully crafted poem that resonates with anyone navigating the challenges of personal transformation. Thank you for sharing CP

  30. Sabrina Wang on December 6, 2024 at 2:14 PM

    Lovely wording is incorporated in the poem to create a powerful poem. It explores how the little moments in life make life worth living for.

  31. HLG on December 10, 2024 at 11:29 AM

    Amazing work! Your poem got me thinking about life and just letting it take you on its journey and not trying to control every aspect of it. I love the analogy of butterfly wings coming from your back. To me butterflies are a sign of hope and a message that everything will be okay. Thank you for sharing your story

  32. Claire on December 11, 2024 at 3:47 PM

    The way you used such vivid wording to paint the pictures of the cliff, beast, jaws, etc for the readers is so amazing. This poem is so encouraging to anyone because they can relate to the feelings you described in the poem, especially when you described the transition from trembling caterpillars to butterflies to the wings themselves coming out from your back. Your poem is a wonderful beam of light for anyone who might be struggling or discouraged! It made me reflect and think about my life in the way that you used in the poem.

  33. Blake C on December 30, 2024 at 7:36 PM

    This is great work! I liked the meaning that some moments of joy and happiness are worth fear. You also used great imagery throughout your poem. I can’t find anything bad about this poem. Overall, great work!

  34. Anaiya on January 7, 2025 at 3:49 PM

    This is so beautiful, love your work and keep doing what you love the most!!

  35. Anthony on February 9, 2025 at 12:44 PM

    I enjoyed reading your poem and I loved noticing how it was about growth physically and emotionally. Every line makes it easy to sense where you were going with. The line hills stretch into mountains, I thought with that a small opportunity turns into a big one and then the sky is the limit! I did like how you referenced caterpillars turning into butterflies because that on its own is a transformation and is a good way to symbolize the growth you have done. Your poem is powerful, sends a good message that change will come in time, and that its about being patient. Good job on it!

  36. Himaani on February 10, 2025 at 12:07 PM

    I love the saying “A smiling chapter in life is worth a kingdom of fear”, it shows how powerful it is to be able to overcome your fearful journey despite all of the doubts you may have, and it is a reminder of the better things that come beyond your fears.

  37. Saesha on February 15, 2025 at 1:03 AM

    Your poem is beautifully uplifting, capturing the tension between fear and freedom. The imagery is vivid, and the transformation feels both personal and universal. That last line leaves a powerful sense of triumph—love this!

  38. Praagna on February 15, 2025 at 5:27 PM

    CP, Your poetry strikes a deep chord; it’s like standing on the brink of something enormous, heart racing, poised to soar. I adore how you depict the emotion of fear giving way to freedom, and the visual of struggle and transition is so potent. When you realize that having courage is worth the risk, the line “A smiling chapter in life / is worth a kingdom of fear” really gets to you. The entire composition evokes the sensation of taking a deep breath before taking a leap, which is a common experience when venturing into the unknown.

  39. Mike on February 15, 2025 at 8:13 PM

    CP this poem has powerful imagery. I think my favorite line is “a smiling chapter of life is worth a kingdom of fear”. It says a lot about life and how we go through really challenging things and that could make us appreciate the good moments. Indeed those smiling chapters are worth so much. CP I hope you continue to write because this is high quality!

  40. Mishti Tomar on February 16, 2025 at 10:55 AM

    The imagery in this poem is vivid and creative. The metaphor of the butterfly and its metamorphasis is powerful. Despite still being tied to the physical realm, spiritually and mentally you have grown.

  41. Laasya on February 16, 2025 at 11:26 AM

    This poem is very powerful! I like how it discusses evolution as time passes, whether it be from a caterpillar to a butterfly or exemplifying how sometimes hardships or “fear” need to be surpassed in time in order to achieve joy.

  42. Aarush Sanap on February 16, 2025 at 2:11 PM

    This poem is about facing challenges and overcoming fear. It uses powerful images of nature and transformation, showing growth and courage. In the end, it reminds us that joy and confidence are stronger than fear. Inspiring and uplifting!

  43. Tanisha on February 16, 2025 at 2:16 PM

    This poem is wonderful. The imagery in your words are truly captivating. The use of nature as a way to show hope and courage is impactful. Thank you for sharing!

  44. Mahee Khatri on February 16, 2025 at 3:43 PM

    The beautiful imagery and metaphors in this poem beautifully captures the message of the meaning of happiness and positivity in life. This phrase ‘A smiling chapter in life is worth a kingdom of fear’ speaks on how it is worth going through the obstacles and fears if it leads to happiness and comfort.

  45. Imogen Huxley on February 20, 2025 at 6:51 PM

    The imagery and personification in this poem is so profound—I could perfectly picture the place you were describing at the beginning of the poem. I also love the notion of transformation in this poem and the description of what it feels like to be unafraid of change. “the chasm becomes the jaws of a beast
    like rocky cliffs manifesting out of fog” and “Trembling caterpillars metamorph butterflies in my stomach. At the apex Wings unfold from my back” are both incredibly detailed statements on how to move through life when change is occurring.

  46. KW on February 21, 2025 at 5:46 PM

    This is a great way to think about life. Very inspiring.

  47. KW on February 21, 2025 at 11:28 PM

    Every chapter of your life is going to be high like a mountain, lower like the horizon, or somewhere in between. Every chapter of your life regardless is a lesson to be learned and a moment to be grateful for. Learning how to ride the wind, or morph like a caterpillar are vital to life.

  48. Lucas Lopez on February 27, 2025 at 12:53 PM

    This poem is so vivid and full of powerful imagery — it feels like a journey of transformation and courage. The way it moves from tension and fear to hope and flight is so beautifully done, especially with those butterflies symbolizing both anxiety and change. I love the line “A smiling chapter in life is worth a kingdom of fear” — it captures the idea of taking risks for joy so perfectly. The ending leaves you hanging in the best way, like the moment right before taking off. This is such an inspiring and evocative piece!

  49. Pranjel on February 28, 2025 at 5:47 PM

    This poem captures the journey of overcoming fear and personal transformation. The imagery of nature and the caterpillar-to-butterfly metaphor symbolize growth and empowerment. “Wings unfold from my back” reflects breaking free from fear, while the line “May gravity keep and deny” expresses a willingness to rise above limitations. It’s a powerful reflection on embracing change and finding strength within.

Leave a Comment





This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

The poets featured here are currently incarcerated, and many of them are in federal prisons far from home. Your feedback is a valuable source of motivation and connection to the outside community. Post your comments, feedback, and encouragement in the space below the poem. Messages will be passed on directly to the author. Comments may not appear immediately on the site, as our team processes them to mail to the poets.