Jennifer Morrison

Summary

The text describes a young girl's traumatic experience of sexual assault on her 13th birthday, despite her attempts to seek help and resist, and reflects on the lack of support and understanding from others.

Abstract

The narrative "Helium Secrets" delves into the harrowing account of a girl's 13th birthday, where what began as a celebratory party ended in a distressing encounter with an older boy named Ricky. The protagonist, who just entered her teenage years, finds herself alone with Ricky after her guests have left, and he takes advantage of her, disregarding her clear discomfort and resistance. The poem conveys the betrayal and violation she feels, as well as the silence and dismissal that often surround such experiences. It is a response to a writing prompt about luck, suggesting that the protagonist's "unlucky" experience has left deep sc

Helium Secrets

Becoming a Teenager

I may have lied, but, at least I tried Being honest is good, but secrets best When facts will expose disgusting acts You find few want to know what’s true My party was a blast, I wished it would last But it was late, and no one could wait Everyone left me, then Ricky asked, “What’s your hurry?” Mom & dad never knew I was last to go He was older, and considerably bolder Guzzling beer, he forgot all about fear “You just turned 13? You’re the Queen! It’s your luuuucky day, c’mon, let’s play!” No time to flirt, put his hand in my shirt Throwing me on a pile, resistance was futile Still I cried, I screamed, to get away I tried! But he was stronger and hurt me longer. So that was my birthday, but hey, Maybe I’m just naturally unlucky.

This story is written in response to this writing prompt from Poetry Playground: