“Crochet Chains” by Gabrielle Tilli

gonna get out my yarn

dig out my hooks

ask myself if it’s worth it

too old to lose myself in a book

if i died today

would i leave a stain?

body and brain so wound

a twisted and knotted skein.

can’t take my little hook

knot myself back together.

spilling red yarn on the floor

puddles of wool untether.

i untangle you

brother father mother

left myself with loose ends

tell you there is nothing i would rather

walked away from it all

some strings i couldn’t sever.

shackled to my mistakes

so now who’s clever?

Gabrielle Tilli is dual-majoring in English and PPE (Philosophy, Politics, and Economics).  In her free time, she writes.  When able, she enjoys textile crafts, such as knitting and crocheting.  

Artist’s Statement: “This poem examines the relationship between daughters and their families. Through the lens of crocheting, which is traditionally feminine work, the author examines the parallels between textile crafts and familial relationships.”