The Breaking Pointe

Faith Alhadeff

The art of dance is the most
Intricate of them all.
It reveals truths we never
Planned on facing.
Blistering feet,
Hidden by a smooth silk shoe.
A simple leisure;
Turned to restraint.
Judging eyes daggering
Her painted on smile.
Stage lights beating down
Upon her skin.
Her body racing to keep up
With her mind.
She is the most vulnerable
Of artists.
Two tiny wooden boxes;
Holding the weight of years
Of struggle.
Beautiful lace leotards
Concealing the figure
She is pressured to maintain.
Countless pirouettes spiraling
Her out of control.
The echoing sound of applause
Drowning out the
Recollection of lost time.
The art of dance is the most
Intricate of them all.