A SECRET CHORD

The 11th anthology by the POPS and PATHfinder Clubs, which support teens affected by incarceration, detention, and deportation, celebrates student writing and artwork.

Through poetry, prose, and art, Club members from different schools and cities discuss a range of human experiences, including love and loss, family and friendship, freedom and injustice. They form a “chorus of heartfelt voices”—and they express “truth, resilience, and creativity” even as they describe and critique oppressive systems throughout the anthology. Poems and short prose pieces are interspersed with artwork, including drawings and photographs. The anthology is divided into nine parts, each named for an aspect of music, for example, “Requiem,” “Dissonance,” “Harmony,” “Melody,” and “Tempo.” These sections are preceded by “Overture” and followed by “Finale,” which contextualize the subject matter and purpose of the project. The pieces focus on childhood, what the authors have overcome, and what a better future might look like. Several authors explore “what Club means” to them, such as feeling heard, accepted, and inspired. Other overarching themes include connection, community, and hope. While most of the pieces are arranged thoughtfully by topic, the placement of a handful of entries interrupts the cohesion of the anthology. Nevertheless, the message that community is vital shines through.

This anthology sings with powerful young voices.