Pen 2 Paper
The Coalition of Texans with Disabilities hosts an annual writing contest, Pen 2 Paper. In alignment with the organization’s mission and values, the contest “seeks pieces of fiction, non-fiction, and poetry that treat the topic of disability.”
Laura Perna, the Communications Director of CTD, featured my poem, “Trauma’s Shadow,” on the CTD website, with the accompanying rationale:
Vargas Agnese’s imagery and bodily descriptions made my hair stand on end, taking a mental state and making it feel physical.
Laura pernA, communications director, coalition of texans with disabilities
Trauma’s Shadow really got to me. There’s so much feeling packed into these seemingly sparse lines. In 83 words, it made me feel cold, grey (can grey be a feeling…?), and uneasy. Vargas Agnese’s imagery and bodily descriptions made my hair stand on end, taking a mental state and making it feel physical. When Vargas Agnese submitted her entry, she had this to add: “As a survivor of Acute Stress Disorder, I have had seasons where “shadows of trauma” follow me. I have friends who have been chased by the disorder of PTSD, as well. This poem is a tribute to those who run from shadows.” To whoever needs it: I hope Vargas Agnese’s Trauma’s Shadow connects with you.
Laura Perna, Communications Director, Coalition of Texans with Disabilities
Kimberly Vargas Agnese 