Incarcerated Scholars Conference Art Gallery 2024

Gathered Spirits

Willie Nichols

Knox College Prison Education Program, student

Illinois

I come alive in the forest
A bright-eyed boy
most Lonesome and cautious
The warmth of the fire comforts me
Captivated by the memories of my ancestors
dancing on the flames
My heart beats steady full of purpose
Ever since searching for the smallest detail
The aroma is a lazy greeting from an old friend
The force is alive a symphony of life
The tree sings to me—along with all that creeps
From my ancestors carry the wind
Moaning and groaning and pain
Telling epic Tales of a lost world—a lost tongue
Assuring me—encouraging me of who I am
Encamped at the Edge of Darkness
Taunting the fire as Shadows they dance
As proud as peacock swing back and forth
Their feet tuned to the rhythm of nature
The beauty in their movement intoxicating
My stomach opens up and I Fall in
My Blood compelled me
Together—we Howl at the Moon

Artist Statement

Gathered Spirits is about my love for nature. As a child I felt alive running through the forest with my cousins. Our connection with nature passed down from one generation to another. This poem was about that relationship.

If you are the artist of an artwork featured in this gallery and want it removed, please reach out to alliance@higheredinprison.org