A Creative Anthology by Pupils of

Platanos College

Life In Lockdown

Introduction

Welcome to Life In Lockdown, an anthology of works portraying

the experiences of Platanos College pupils during the

Coronavirus Pandemic.

Pupils across Years 7-11 have vocalised our personal

perspectives of the pandemic that we are all collectively

enduring. Our written reflections, photography and artistic

creations express our thoughts, feelings and experiences

during this unprecedented Global Crisis. The pandemic has

certainly had an effect on many aspects of our lives, one being

a potential challenge to everyone’s mental health and

wellbeing. We, like everyone else in society, have been

affected by drastic changes made to our lives over recent

weeks and months, from not seeing family and friends to the

challenge of not being able to simply venture outdoors. For

myself and my fellow pupils at Platanos College, we have all

been affected by a lack of our normal school routine. We know

that the things that we took for granted just months ago, can

impact each of us in different ways; but we also know that we

are not alone in our struggle, however big or small. We trust

that things will get better.

We have seen communities come together as we unite to play

our part in the fight against Coronavirus, to support those in

need and to show our appreciation for NHS workers and key

workers who keep our community and country moving. The

spirit of these acts of togetherness and solidarity unite us, even

when we are apart.

So many of us have struggled to be in an enclosed space for

weeks on end with our loved ones. We have despaired at the

prospect of another Groundhog Day. We have worried about

our families’ health and financial circumstances. Some of us

have lost loved ones, or suffered from being very ill ourselves:

Coronavirus has been a dark cloud and a silent enemy.

However, Lockdown has also brought opportunities for us to

embrace, such as spending rare quality time with our family

and loved ones and giving us the gift of time to focus on

learning new things. Sometimes these blessings can be seen in

something as simple as noticing and appreciating the small

things in life: the smell of freshly cut grass; the unusual sound

of noiseless inner London streets; the satisfying stretch of our

limbs as we wake up without an alarm clock blaring in our ears.

These simple blessings can be appreciated because this

pandemic - for all the trauma and tragedy it has inflicted - has

also given us the gift of time, of slowing down, of reflection.

Maybe some of us have reflected on our lives and have grown

as individuals during this time, making new priorities for our

lives as pupils of Platanos College. Maybe some of us have

realised we are not putting enough effort into achieving our

dreams. Maybe some of us have re-considered what our

dreams actually look like. Maybe, in some strange way, Life in

Lockdown has brought rainbows of positivity from the shadows.

This anthology contains the honest reflections and experiences

of our pupils, both the negative and the positive. At a time when

we as a community are battling what’s been referred to as “an

invisible enemy,” this anthology is a way for us to make our

collective spirit and our individual voices roar in support and

love for one another and hope for a brighter future when we

can once again come together as a community at Platanos

College.

We hope that you enjoy reading this collection of our writing.

On behalf of my fellow pupils, I wish you good health, until the

time when we can all come back together as a school.

Rebecca Obadina-Adebowale (Year 10)

The

World

On

Pause

Dear Future Me,

Lockdown – sounds like a prison right?

Isra, make sure you treat every moment like it’s your last.

Anything can appear out of the blue and change your life, just

like Coronavirus has done.

Appreciate everything in your life right now: if there’s a new

movie at the cinema, go and watch it; if your friends invite you

to go out, just go; stay connected to your family and friends as

much as you can.

Populate your life with everyday blessings.

Isra Diblawe

Photo by Alda Neziri

The day has started,

No laughs are shared,

The streets are dead.

The day has started, Locked in a house with the people I love,

Nothing to look forward to, Boredom grows as time

Moves on.

Bills rise as pay falls, Thousands sick

As many fall silent, A shimmer of hope in Science lies.

We try to take comfort,

To take care of those around us, With no end in sight,

We look only at the ground.

We pray for others,

As they pray for us, For all this to be over,

Before we all become dust.

We live our lives in fear and dread, Not knowing if we’ll be next.

Our lives stuck in an endless loop, As we slowly begin to lose ourselves.

Alexie Jahanbani

We're

stronger

together

than

apart

On the night of the pleasant evening breeze,

It suddenly eludes me,

Thou suddenly forgets the outside world,

Being stuck in thine home.

Thou does not wait for the locks to break,

Or for the plague to somehow flake.

Thou continues on with the hope and long,

For the outside to go on,

To play through the rest of the day,

Without any care in any way.

Thou wants to stay productive as much

As waking up in the morning.

But thou wishes to still have an important reason,

To wake up in the morning.

Chukwunwike Okoli

Photo by Ephraim Mwanzo

At first I thought of Lockdown as an amazing dream.

Slowly, my mindset changed and I noticed how it turned into a

nightmare; a very dull and repetitive nightmare.

I wake up every morning with the shining sunlight flickering in

my eyes, awakening me from my brief slumber.

Shortly after this, I look after my brother and complete my

homework. Later, I have dinner and go to bed. Then I do it all

over again. My life in Lockdown is boring, like the cliche of

watching dull paint dry.

However, not every aspect of Lockdown is unfortunate and

repetitive. Communities are coming together, clapping for the

heroism of keyworkers.

I have discovered a new sport that I love and have formed a

better relationship with other people in my household.

As Lockdown starts to ease, I begin to feel relief.

I finally have the feeling of my old life returning.

Anastasia Shovkoplyas

I long for the

day

2020

A year like no other,

Separating everyone and bringing us together.

It has been an extraordinary rollercoaster,

Teaching us more as we grow older.

‘The world on pause’

A pandemic wounds us with its claws,

Leaving marks and scars forever.

Will it be forgotten? Of course, never!

As the world wrestles its enemy,

We fight, desperately

Trying to defeat the virus

That has created a worldwide crisis.

Then the outrage and protests begin,

Nobody would withstand

The brutal death of George Floyd -

Of course it made everyone annoyed.

Worldwide protests broke out,

With pure passion throughout,

To find justice and stop racism

And for police mistreatment, was pure criticism.

This year created a new normal,

Opened our eyes, gave us fresher air

As it tucked us away at home yet brought us closer,

All of us on an extraordinary rollercoaster.

Asmaa Otmani

Photo by Yasmin Elhag-Salih

I can't explain what my life is like living in a box,

The world’s on Lock

And everyone slowly stops.

I just sit and waste away,

I have too much to say.

I could write out my life to turn

Someone’s frown upside down

Sitting here is like a prison sentence,

At home, all alone

Plenty of thrills on Netflix and YouTube.

Once school had closed,

I was sold on the idea of being free...

But maybe it isn't what I thought it would be.

Bilal Juma

Everyday's

the

same

I feel like a machine programmed to do the same thing over

and over: wake up, do homework, eat, sleep, repeat. I miss

school - not the detentions and waiting in line for lunch, but just

my friends and seeing different people everyday.

Imagine a virus that can be prevented by washing your hands,

yet we can’t find a vaccine. My prayers especially go out to the

loved ones who have passed away; may they rest in peace.

To me, Lockdown means no freedom. It means that the simple

things we took for granted are now taken away from us and we

are left in a position of no power. But in times like this, the most

important thing to do is look out for one another.

Boushra Hagos

Solitude’ by Daniel Coelho

Lockdown, when are you going to end?

I want to play outside with my friends.

I want to feel the warm sun fall down on my skin,

Oh Lockdown, when are you going to end?

So I can go outside

Instead of being kept in this prison.

Sabir Haji

Reconnect

with

Nature

Dear Future Me,

Right now, we are going through a tough time, but we can beat

it - I just know we can! You see that, right?

That’s the spirit.

Be happy, positive, resilient and don’t stop being yourself for

anyone else. Negative energy? What’s that? Knowing you can

make it through things, is only going to make it better. Believe

in yourself through these tough times; you’re already half-way

there.

Look at you! So grown up, looking back at a message you

wrote when you were young.

Say “thank you,” “please”, “you’re welcome.” Tell someone they

look nice today, because you don’t know what people are going

through; just a simple compliment can change someone’s day

or their perspective towards life.

Stay close to family; hold on to them. Give them hugs and

kisses. Spend time with them, because you don’t know what

tomorrow holds for you.

Carry on paying that rent, those bills. Carry on working hard for

your dreams, because I promise you, there is light at the end of

the tunnel.

But, listen Sophia. Sometimes people don’t accept you. You

might think this is the end and that there is no hope. Sophia,

sweetheart, wake up, because this is reality, this is real life. No

one has to accept you, except yourself. Keep loving yourself

and being confident. Share love and keep having a big heart.

And always remember, today’s actions will result in tomorrow’s

consequences.

2020 will be a year you will never forget, so remember it for the

right reasons.

Sophia Martins

Art by Ece Ergench

Lockdown has taught me many lessons and has definitely

changed me as a person.

First of all, it’s taught me to be grateful for the finer things in life.

I believe Lockdown was a blessing in disguise as it forced

people to communicate with their families more and to actually

spend time away from things, to stop, reflect and think; life

before Lockdown was very busy and hectic.

Personally, I have not found Lockdown exigent, partially

because I still speak to my friends through social media, but

also because I keep myself occupied and my mind sane

through my school work, cleaning and cooking for the family.

I enjoy my own company and being in my own space, which is

another reason why Lockdown has at times felt effortless and

life has felt tranquil. However, I do miss going out with my

friends and I am indeed exhilarated to be coming out of

Lockdown.

What I can say is that Lockdown has changed me for the

better: I appreciate life much more than I did before.

Lockdown is like a challenge: it can be good or it can be the

complete opposite. It all depends on what you make of it.

It’s a challenge within yourself.

Dalia Parker

Life Can Change In A Matter

Of Minutes

When the invasion came, it was invisible.

Politicians warned of deadly transmission,

Friends and neighbours under suspicion.

In the earliest months of the year

People were already crying and dying.

This virus sent us into Lockdown, spreading fear.

People locked in houses shedding tears,

Boris Johnson advised us to buy masks.

Please, God, don't let us down this year.

Now that the end of Lockdown is near,

All that left is the antidote

Upon which people are relying...

Advised to remain calm, we are trying,

But we can't, due to the pain we fear.

Please, God, save us from dying.

Dennis Lopez Garcia

‘My Mum Teaching Me How To Cook ’ by Kimani McCrobie

One week turns into two weeks, then three weeks into four; the

dull days blur together as some of us struggle to remember

whether it’s Tuesday or Wednesday, when in fact, it’s

Thursday. Mondays no longer feel like Mondays and Fridays no

longer feel like Fridays.

The past few months have felt like somewhat of an extended

holiday, just without most of the fun as sunny days go to waste.

One notification turns into two notifications, then three

notifications into four; the work we’re set keeps us busy. Yet

we’re not busy enough to distract us from the fear for our

families’ wellbeing, whether they’re here in England or

overseas.

Conversations over the phone almost always end in “Stay

Safe.” Are these words our generation’s new “I love you”?

One overdue task turns into two overdue tasks, then three

overdue tasks into four. I’m slowly losing motivation to do even

the simplest of things. I refuse to get out of bed, in hope of

drifting back into my interrupted dreams; dreams where I’m not

required to accept the nightmare of this reality.

I sleep to avoid, but it doesn’t always work.

One tear turns into two tears, then three tears turn into four,

until they just don’t stop.

I miss her.

I miss him.

I miss them.

It’s… lonely.

Even when I’m with people, I’m lonely.

I am worn out mentally. But I’m also sick of being so

helpless, continuously depending on one person to make me

feel better, hoping to learn from her carefree ways.

I just wish everything would go back to normal.

Diana Bernard

A Blessing

In Disguise

Dear Future Me,

How are things? Is the Lockdown finally over? Did we go on

holiday? There are so many questions I want to ask you.

As you know very well, I was midway through the first year of

Secondary school. Then, out of nowhere like rain on a sunny

day, bold headlines were shouting, “Covid-19! Schools shut!

Everything’s closed!”

Sadly, that is what happened. Some are calling it “the worst

year of mankind.” Things can change so suddenly.

I haven't seen any of my friends in person since March 19th but

now it is June 22nd. That's 3 months and 3 days.

I wonder what future generations may think when they hear

about the story of Coronavirus. Will they be petrified? Or

intrigued?

Lockdown feels like being in a tiger’s cage, not knowing where

it is hiding, waiting to pounce......

But Lockdown has shown me that you can still have fun with

the little things in life. A hobby I have started is origami. It all

started one day when I was bored and wanted something to do.

Do you remember? I made a dog and a dinosaur. A hobby I

have continued to enjoy is going to my allotment and growing

fresh fruit and vegetables from seeds. I have been planting

them ever since I was little. We have grown lots of things this

year, such as potatoes, tomatoes and cucumbers. Not many

people know this about me. I wonder, are you more open now?

Well, I don't really know who you are, since people change.

You may or may not like the same things or have the same

friends and hobbies as I do now. But I know that you will do

whatever you can to make yourself happy.

Right now I'm in our room, sitting in our usual space, typing this

up. And I'm wondering “do we really know what the future may

bring?” From the beginning of Year 7, turning 12 and now there

is a virus hanging around.

What will our life bring? Life can change in a matter of minutes.

Will I change or will I not?

Well, you may know the answer, but I’ll have to wait and see...

Crystal Joy Azzopardi

‘Life In Quarantine ’ by Reuben Bowes

Dear Diary,

Lockdown began suddenly on the 23rd

March; it felt very

strange. Most people were quite anxious as everyone had to

stay at home. Nobody was able to visit family members or

friends, which was a very frustrating experience.

A few days later on March 26th, ‘Clap for Carers’ started; this

was something my family and I looked forward to a lot. The

NHS staff are our heroes, bravely trying to defeat this wild

animal. They are saving lives every day, despite the risks of

Covid-19 to themselves. By the time Easter came in April, we

were all still stuck at home.

When my family and I go out for fresh air and shopping, I have

to always wear a mask. It feels like I am holding my breath

whilst under water. The scary part about Lockdown is not

knowing who has the virus. Life has become unpredictable

because of Covid-19. However, Lockdown has made me

realise that I should be more cautious when I am outside. It has

also taught me that life is precious and that we shouldn’t take it

for granted.

On May 25th

, George Floyd’s death made me more aware of

the racial inequality within society. This has been an important

topic within society and it has angered a lot of people. I was

sad, annoyed and confused as he did not deserve to be killed

like some kind of dangerous animal. It even started large

protests all over the world; I hope this will bring about change,

as I believe everyone deserves to be treated equally.

Duke Appiah

I know I'll get through

t h i s

Life in Lockdown is a whirlwind of emotions -

Everyone is getting short tempered;

We all need to remember

We are all in this together.

All that are affected we will remember.

We thank carers all over the world in different places

For putting smiles upon our faces.

Thank-you everyone for playing a part,

From doctors, shopkeepers and teachers

To the mums and dads who sit at home

Making delicious raspberry tart.

Elisha Broadhurst

Photos by Yasmin Elhag -Salih

Dear Diary,

Since the start of Lockdown there have been a lot of blue and grey

moments, but there have also been times of blossoming flowers.

When I first heard about the virus, I didn't really take it seriously. I made

jokes out of it while my parents were panic buying; can you believe that

they bought 10 bags of rice?

When Lockdown first began, I was content that I didn't have to go to

school anymore, but it seemed as though our teachers still gave us 10

essays a day! Even though I was initially delighted to be at home, slowly

the days became colourless. I missed the air and the cool wind on my

skin.

Everything has changed; the familiar things have become unfamiliar. My

sleep schedule has no shape. Most importantly, I have missed the

comfort of being amongst my friends.

I realised quickly that Lockdown was really miserable, as thousands lost

their lives and others lost loved ones. However, in a way, Lockdown has

had a positive impact on me; I found myself and discovered treasures

within myself. I have learnt how to work more independently and how to

turn negative energy into positive energy. I’ve learnt to never lose myself

again.

At the end of the day I have to be grateful, as I have the roof over my

head and food on the table. My heart goes out to those who don't even

have water. The pandemic has had the worst impact on the world in

places where there was already a lot of suffering. For example, people in

Yemen are dealing not only with Coronavirus like the rest of us, but also

war and starvation. How will countries like this be affected by this

pandemic?

When Lockdown is over, I want to spend more time with my friends and

make memories from the little things. I know I have to stay strong and

trust that the terrible times will fly by in the blink of an eye. I know that I

have my faith in God to get me through this time.

Samreen Amanullah

A

whirlwindof

emotions

Never thought it was going to be like this.

The situation worsens,

It is all just a crisis.

The hole in the helpless deepens,

The generations fall apart

With God as our only hope.

Like a malfunctioned heart,

Many are unable to cope.

This earth is a body,

With cells dying amongst the living.

Glad that things are not bloody,

But 2020 has been so unforgiving.

Eniola Omonojo

‘Stuck Inside’ by

Samreen Amanullah

Lost in our own minds, an infinite pit of chaos and fear,

Our lives, a repetitive, monotonous cycle, stuck in an endless

loop of confusion.

Canned indoors like sardines, gradually rotting over the years

like a lonely, floating piece of bark, deteriorating in the vast, never-ending ocean.

Kettles of boiling blood, ready to explode; riots, tear gas and

racism, just a few of the many catastrophic aspects of this eternal separation.

Dormant our humanity has been towards the planet for

decades; this was a chance for the planet to catch up and take a short breath.

Our insignificant actions suddenly have major consequences,

some worse than others.

Whilst we’re being governed by a virus, the world has leapt

into an endless pit of destruction in the infamous age of 2020.

Now is the time to start to change; we’re ever so slowly

approaching the point of “no turning back.”

Fares Ouanoufi

Gleaming sunrays

will

gallop across

my face

After these dark days of Lockdown and isolation,

We are still full of determination.

We glance at the droplets of rain in despair,

And show our strength as a nation.

We may be distant,

But we stand against this pandemic together,

Because together,

We can overcome.

When this is over -

Which will happen someday soon -

Our world will be completely different.

But for now,

We stare at silent and hollow streets with sorrow.

This deadly disease is teaching us

How much we miss each other.

Laura Vasconcelos

Photo by Nicandro Carvalho Mendonca

I cannot go to school today,

But our work has just begun.

Missing our friends and teachers,

Watching YouTube to see who features.

I may be feeling lonely, a solitary house on a hill,

But I’ll stay in forever, to stop others getting ill.

No matter where you work or what you do,

We're in this together to see it through.

For one day this will be over, our sacrifices done,

And we can all go back to having lots and lots of fun.

Jessica Marques

Confined

in a

breathless box

Dear Diary, Every day is the same: wake up, eat, work, sleep and repeat. Nothing interesting - just me, yearning for the moment when I can reunite with my friends and enjoy school as I did before. I yearn for the opportunity to feel the cleansed air breeze

across me. Most importantly, I yearn for the opportunity to have variety in my days and not know in advance everything that’s going to happen. I hope that everything returns to normal and that everybody can enjoy life without having to be cautious of a virus 24/7. It is surprising to see how easily I can get bored, despite me always telling myself that there are hundreds of things to do.

Harold Leonard

Art by Lasharnae Bennett

L Lost in my thoughts

O Obstructed with boredom

C Captured in my house

K Knowledge of nothing

D Doing nothing

O Obeying the world of Lockdown

W Withstanding my boredom

N Never to go outside

Justin Yasno

We

Can

Overcome

Dear Diary,

Every day is the same: dreary, monotonous and predictable. Shock! Confusion! Panic! These are just some of the emotions that I have felt during Lockdown for the past 4 months. At first when Lockdown was announced, the only emotions going through my head were of relaxation and happiness. But now Lockdown feels like a prison!

Frequently, I cannot stop dreaming of the day when I can open the door and feel the breeze and sun rays bounce across my face; but God knows if that will actually happen, as it is rare to have over 20 degrees in London. However, as soon as Lockdown was announced, the weather suddenly decided to change and shoot above 25 degrees. Why now? Surprisingly, Lockdown has taught me that I get easily bored

when not preoccupied by my phone or computer. Endless time spent with family has felt both dreadful and enjoyable. I am desperate to see my friends again, to see them open their arms wide for me and embrace me with the warmth of their hearts. I so long for that day; I wish it would happen soon.

Samantha Candido

Photo by Melania Skotarenko-Spicer

Lockdown... It’s crazy,

It’s made me lazy.

But I’ve stood up And realised, To succeed,

I must pursue My future success.

Covid-19 is killing,

People dying, Children hurting, Children crying.

Can you practice what you preach? Because Black Lives Matter.

We come out to shout

We are all equal, Black white or mixed,

It’s all the same, The way you look

Shouldn’t be the thing to blame.

I understand the pain. George Floyd couldn’t breathe,

His body clenched to the streets, It was unfair,

And suddenly people start to stare…

Juan Lopez Garcia

Share

Love

2020

My 2020 our 2020:

First it started with Australian Fires -

But they were just the beginning of the flames...

No one knows why

Is this just a test?

Then suddenly Coronavirus arrived,

Stopping us from our freedoms.

Then we were all quarantined

Until we can be fully cleaned.

George Floyd was destroyed,

We became angry and annoyed.

Everyone around us repeats

‘Black Lives Matter.’

No one says ‘Only Black Lives Matter’-

Everyone knows ‘All lives matter’

But some are paranoid.

I can’t lie, it hurts.

My grandma died

And all we did was cry.

I know she’s in a better place,

She’s in paradise with God’s Grace and mercy.

She is gone,

And our new life has begun…

We are in Lockdown,

Stopping me from seeing her last breath.

And now I can’t find a rhyme.

Masks are put on

And the virus surrounds the city of London.

No-one can help but stay indoors,

And no-one is allowed to go outdoors.

2020, What a test.

I guess it may be some kind of quest.

More people are dying,

And we are left crying.

Khiara Jarrin Herrera

Photo by Khiara Jarrin Herrera

Dear Diary,

Every day starts the same; I wake up, sleep still lingering in my

eyes, and walk across the hall to the bathroom. I wash my face,

brush my teeth and have a shower.

Walking down the creaking steps, I feel refreshed and ready to

start the day. I then slip into the kitchen, grab the chilled milk

from the fridge and pour into a bowl, reaching for the golden

crisp Cheerios. Sitting at the table, spoon in hand whilst milk

drips slowly, I stare out of the window, desperately wondering

when I’ll see my friends and family again.

I log on to ‘Show My Homework,’ scrolling through the long list

of tasks to complete. I wait for Word to load; as the blue circle

goes around and around, I listen to the silence of the house.

The deafening silence is then disturbed by Boris Johnson's

voice cutting through the air, repeating the words “Stay at

home." I picture the meaningful look in his eye.

Later on, after I’ve finished my work for the day, in a daze I flick

through the channels, hearing the word ‘Covid-19’ over and

over. I hear about the thousands of people who have

unfortunately passed away due to this vicious plague that

seems to spread like wildfire.

Tired and drained from listening to the news, I sigh and switch

the TV off. I get up from the comfort of the sofa and wander

around the house searching for something amusing to do.

Hours go past and still nothing to do. Lockdown seems to last

for an eternity. It’s like being stuck in a loop, doing the same

thing every day, eating the same foods, having the same

routine. I’m sick of it.

I long for the day when I will get to hug my family and friends

again. I long for the day when I can venture outside freely

without dodging every person I see, without wearing a mask

that cuts deeply into my skin. I long for the day when I don't

have to stare at the same blank walls.

Kaelee Daley

Everyday

blessings

Lock your doors!

Stay at home!

You can’t see family!

Wear your mask!

What will happen when the year ends?

Will the virus stop?

Or will it continue to spread?

When will the nightmare end?

No one knows.

It’s like we’re in a dark world,

With no light.

Lasharnae Bennett

Image by Michelle Le

Nobody knew we’d experience such bizarre events as those

that have happened in our recent history. Sure, it hasn’t been

as bad as The Plague and The Black Death, but someone once

said to me that they feared it’d be like the next Spanish Flu.

Boy, was I worried. As soon as the news got out, the world was

cautious. People went from “Hi! How about we meet

tomorrow?” to “Ah...maybe next time.” Realistically speaking,

when will that next time come?

There was only one solution that erupted mixed emotions from

everyone. A solution that was out of the public’s hands. A job

for the government.

There was a rusty yet tinted golden object hidden within the fist

of their hand. It burned the crevices buried in their skin. The

sharp end of the tiny object was enough to create a red

crescent, which caused the burning sensation to accelerate.

They gripped onto it for dear life — for everyone’s lives. It was

too life-changing to hold carelessly. The person was drawn,

reeled in like a fish being lured with bait. Each step taken

backwards, was a step taken forwards. Each second that went

by, was a second closer to the undeniable future. This was it.

A moment to make for the history books.

Opening their fist was like tearing off a feather that had been

glued to sand paper for weeks. The surface of their hand was

moist and sweaty. The crescents caused by the item created a

numb feeling. They yanked it out of their hand, inhaling a sharp

intake of breath whilst doing so. The rusty yet tinted golden

object was a key: “Find the key to your future.”

Was embracing the drastic changes to the world our inevitable

future? Regardless, whoever obtained the key had the strength

to insert it into a tiny keyhole and twist. Little did we know how

much the world would twist too.

Suffocating masks and endless tasks for key workers,

abandoned roads and constant phones ringing in one’s ear;

how did the world transition so fast? Some wanted to grab that

key, toss it away and have everything return to normal, but how

can it possibly go back to ‘normal’? The key of acceptance has

already locked the world’s fate.

Michelle Le

Because

I'm locked

up,

I'm free

Dear Diary,

Every day I ask myself the same questions: “When can I go

out to the supermarket without having to queue up? Without

having to be 2m apart? Without having to not touch anything?” I

miss how things used to be. I miss going to my uncle’s house. I

miss seeing my friends. But we’ve got to follow the rules and do

everything we can to eradicate Coronavirus from the earth.

I’ve spent so much time with my family that I’ve realised that I

can bake, cook and have fun with my siblings. I miss clapping

for the NHS. Every day is the same; all we do is stay at home. I

miss how at weekends you could visit your friends, go to the

beach or the arcade. I want things to be back to normal but, as

I said, we’ve got to work together to beat the virus. I’ve dreamt

of the day when I can open the doors to feel the sun shining

brightly on my face.

I’ll never forget what’s happening right now; I don’t think any of

us will. This will be a very painful time to remember for some

people, because loved ones have passed away.

I need to keep thinking positively; I know I’ll get through this.

Najma Abdulkadir

‘The buds of our mind will flourish once again.’ By Robert Karapetian.

Dear Diary, Nothing is changing: Lockdown has been one of the most stressful and exhausting times of my life. When I first heard about Lockdown I was confused, because I didn’t really know much about it. It sounded like solitary confinement, which made me feel anxious.

After around 2 weeks of being stuck in quarantine, I became really bored and agitated. Finally, I reached boiling point when I suddenly realised that I hadn’t left the house in a really long time; this made me feel trapped and as if there was no way of escaping. However much I wanted to go out, I was scared for my life. I desperately wanted to hang out with my friends like I used to; FaceTiming just isn’t the same. A memorable moment for me was the day I left my house for the first time in over 2 months. It was amazing to feel the

glorious gust of wind brushing my hijab back and forth. Even though I was expecting the weather to be warm and sunny, I still enjoyed my run. It was extremely refreshing and needed. Surprisingly, I’ve actually learnt a couple things about myself during this whole Lockdown situation, including that I enjoy drawing. I’ve always thought that I wasn’t creative or artistic, but I challenged myself and created some artworks that turned out to be decent.

Spending so much time with my family has been a rollercoaster of emotions. At first it was frustrating because my sisters would always get on my nerves. We never stopped arguing and fighting, but it slowly became more enjoyable; annoying as they are, we’ve really bonded.

Najma Mohamud

A Shimmer

of Hope in Science

Lies

Life in Lockdown has been a new concept to me;

strange but exciting.

Life in Lockdown has also been quite beneficial;

I am able to re-discover my passions.

Life in Lockdown has helped me learn about those I live with;

I now have a wider understanding of their personalities and

interests.

Life in Lockdown has let me reconnect with nature in an

unexpected way;

just simply looking at trees, for example.

Life in Lockdown has meant more family time;

more shared experiences to cherish.

Life in Lockdown has meant a less regimented lifestyle;

less structure than a typical day would entail.

Life in Lockdown has meant new challenges;

trying to learn new skills day by day.

Osarodion Obayangbona

‘New Normality’ by Khiara Jarrin Herrera

Lockdown Rap

Quarantine sucks,

I really need to leave but I don’t have money,

I’m as broke as broke can be.

I’m tired of my family

And I think I’m a go crazy,

Everything is hazy.

We`ve run out of Vaseline,

Now my skin is all pasty -

That’s quarantine for me, baby.

I am here with my little sister,

She’s moving so crazy

She gave me a headache and blister.

When am I gonna leave this jail?

Might as well pop myself a bottle of ginger ale,

Take a deep breath in, let it all out,

We know this summer’s gonna be the deadest ting to talk

about.

Maybe we are close to the end of the Lockdown,

My homework is about to go on a low down,

So all my teachers are going to get to calm down.

My sister is doing a collage

While I have just finished my bars.

*Mic drops*

Ramey Mitchell

Stuck In An Endless Loop

Of Confusion

The Liberty of Lockdown

I’m locked up

Confined in a breathless box, with air dancing in my lungs,

Whilst they lay there, in wards, struggling for breath.

I’m locked up

Prohibited from seeing my friends, with hope singing in my

heart from the prospect of seeing them soon,

Whilst they say their goodbyes from a distance, their heartbeats

gradually fading away.

I’m free

Allowed to dream of the joy that’ll rush through my veins when I

reunite with my loved ones,

Whilst they reminisce of the treasured moments they wish

they’d savoured longer, their systems slowly giving in.

Because I’m locked up, I’m free.

Free to plan for tomorrow,

Free to dream of the future,

Free to live.

Rebecca Obadina-Adebowale

Art by Umaymah Yassin

Confined to my home.

School is out,

No one is about.

Feeling alone,

A two-metre radius zone.

No time to pout.

Stick along with it throughout.

The time we stay - unknown.

At the edges of all is fright.

In every move is stress.

Nothing against it holds any might.

Society has slumped down into a mess.

A lifeless, wordless night.

No time for regrets.

Reuben Bowes

Things can and will

Get better

Dear Future Me,

This time is a difficult one to live in.

The bustling city is something that you can call your home. The

city of London is a place I call home. The red double-decker

buses, the red telephone boxes, the old structures like the

Houses of Parliament and Big Ben: these are things that

represent my home.

And when you’re being limited in the things you can do and

places you can go, it feels like your freedom has been taken

away from you. And that isn’t enjoyable for anyone. Nobody

likes being locked up in their own home. You can’t go out for

dinner and celebrate your birthday – something that means a

lot to you, especially as a young child: presents, cake, family,

friends. These are things that you remember your birthday for.

Memories stick with you forever. And the past can bring people

down. When loved ones die, when someone’s pet dies, when

people go through a divorce – these all form memories, the sad

ones.

I just want you to know, Future Me, that things can and will get

better. Don’t give up; keep trying until you are successful in all

of your goals.

From,

Your past Ryan

Ryan Channer

Photo by Aryan Miah

Dear Diary, Every day is the same: perilous, dull, foreseeable. I fantasise about the day when I can freely explore the outdoors, feel the scorching sun rays beam on me and smell

the beauties of Mother Nature. I am craving to see my friends again, to know that the warmth of their embrace protects me.

Shaymaa Abrar

The Beauties

of

Mother Nature

Life in Lockdown has been extremely hard

And coping with change has been quite bizarre.

Being confined to our homes for safety

Has been something we’ve all been getting used to lately.

During this period of Lockdown, we’ve all lived in isolation

And to keep entertained we have to use our imagination.

As a nation we all had to have hope and determination,

Although keeping locked up was an obligation.

I long for the days when normality will be restored again,

And when the gleaming sun rays will gallop across my face,

When hundreds of people won’t pass away in a day

Because the invisible adversary will have been slayed.

We have all learnt a valuable lesson that we are stronger

together than apart,

We have been ambitious and tried new things

Like baking, riding a bike, cooking or different types of art.

And we have discovered new things

Like the mellifluous melodies of birds that I can’t normally hear

due to all the vehicles on the roads.

Although they have been bad times and some of us have been

heavily scarred,

We have to remember that

Good moments outshine the bad.

None of us should ever discard

The Lockdown memories that will forever live in our hearts.

Uhunoma Obayangbona

‘Stressed’ by Thalia Campbell

The Miserable Torment Clausura* brings

Lockdown - a state of isolation or restricted access instituted as

a security measure. But is that its rightful and bona fide meaning? Is that simple and ever so short definition granted to epitomise our experiences, our challenges and most importantly our emotions? Lockdown is an invasion of our lives, the decimation of our routines, annihilation of our amenities and comforts. Lockdown is about broken bonds like broken bones, the oceans that brim with anxiety like the blood that brims with oxygen.

There is no meaning that can even begin to describe this type of injury; the deep piercing to the heart that so gravely yearns for just a moment with the ones they think of the most; their family, their friends, their beloved. There’s no cure and that is what breaks many of us. We cannot walk into the fires of peril as Lockdown forbids us to. Then there is the anguish that attempts to flow peacefully, desperate

to seek life in our blood. To me, Lockdown has a knock-on effect, a severely damaging one. The bottled-up feelings of emptiness, the skies congested with pain, confusion and anger and the unlimited rivers of depression, anxiety and absence all merge into this cancerous tumour that digests away at our flesh. This tumour battles our souls and spirits and can eventually break us. Lockdown is the thief of our lives; our “normal” is missing, but

can we afford for it to last longer? Has our old normality become so strange and unusual that we must continue “Life in Lockdown” as our new reality? *clausura- “lockdown” in Latin

Umaymah Yassin

One day This will be

over,

Our Sacrifices Done

Isolation: a state of mind

Trapped in the disorientating duration of our own understanding,

One begins to ponder the thought.

What would our lives have been like, Had we been devoid of an impending reality which cannot be

fought?

Previously meaningless attempts at discourse, Now seem a thing of the past.

How have we ended up in a situation, Where we lived life too fast?

We did not appreciate the occasional “hello”,

Conversations which seemed boring although, Just a simple greeting,

Was once enough to give life meaning.

Days, hours, minutes, seconds, Beware this is no cliché.

Time really has lost all purpose, Our feelings can no longer be kept at bay.

A concept that our lives once revolved around, Time provided our narratives with achievement.

Now the only use for time remains in the question, “How long did I end up sleeping?”

Dreams allow us to depart from this infinite abyss of

nothingness, To create our own realities. But one cannot truly escape

A world that demands we no longer stay at ease.

Stay alert is what we are told,

However this assailant harbours no physical being. How can we possibly defend ourselves,

From our own fearful thoughts never fleeing?

Despite the looming presence of an entrapping abnormality, We must refrain from socially distancing ourselves from reality.

Rather than dwelling on the negative, We can use our reflective time wisely.

Our future is not destroyed, far from it,

At the end, we will emerge better people, For we can never forget,

The sacrifices made to subvert this evil.

We have all experienced our own hardships during quarantine, But this time has strengthened our relationships,

For after all this isolation bonding, We are no longer trapped in the disorientating space of our own

understanding.

Robert Karapetian

Photo by Crystal Joy Azzopardi

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Friday Once there was a time when these days meant something to me. A time when each of these days held something new and exciting to look forward to. A time when every day was different... 3 months have gone by and I’m still trying to drastically pinch myself awake from this horrific nightmare. Never in my 15 years of living, did I ever think that not being allowed to go to school,

or being forced to stay at home and do little else but eat and sleep all day, could be a nightmare! Covid-19 has murdered our hopes of a brilliant start to a new decade. Covid-19 has murdered innocent lives. But one thing Covid-19 cannot annihilate is our hope for a better future; a better world in general. Some argue that this is all a blessing in disguise; when I see

the NHS on the verge of breaking point, I beg to differ. I’ve lost motivation to do even the few things I enjoy the most, such as reading. Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

These days mean nothing to me.

Laura Dogbey

It’s a Challenge

Within Yourself

Life in Lockdown is a time of reflection,

To sit and evaluate all of our progression.

People complain endlessly,

Asking “when is this virus going to flee?”

People need to see the bigger picture,

And set goals and targets like a scripture.

People need to give this thought -

Not let their minds teleport.

Take this time to think and reflect,

To consider new ways to try and progress.

Think of this as a new clean slate,

So that after Lockdown, your life will be great!!

Javel Isibor

My Old Life

Returning

With Written Contributions by:

Alexie Jahanbani Khiara Jarrin Herrera

Anastasia Shovkoplyas Lasharnae Bennett

Asmaa Otmani Laura Dogbey

Bilal Juma Laura Vasconcelos

Boushra Hagos Michelle Le

Chukwunwike Okoli Najma Abdulkadir

Crystal Joy Azzopardi Najma Mohamud

Dalia Parker Osarodion Obayangbona

Dennis Lopez Garcia Ramey Mitchell

Diana Bernard Rebecca Obadina-

Adebowale

Duke Appiah Reuben Bowes

Elisha Broadhurst Robert Karapetian

Eniola Omonojo Ryan Channer

Fares Ouanoufi Sabir Haji

Harold Leonard Samantha Candido

Isra Dibwale Samreen Amanullah

Javel Isibor Shaymaa Abrar

Jessica Marques Sophia Martins

Juan Lopez Garcia Uhunoma Obayanbona

Justin Yasno Umaymah Yassin

Kaelee Daley

With Art and Photography by:

Front Cover by: Samreen Amanulla

Alda Neziri Michelle Le

Aryan Miah Nicandro Carvalho Mendoca

Crystal Joy Azzopardi Reuben Bowes

Daniel Coehlo Samreen Amanullah

Ere Ergench Thalia Campbell

Ephraim Mwanzo Umaymah Yassin

Khiara Jarrin Herrera Yasmin Elhag-Salih

Kimani McCrobie

Lasharnae Bennett

Melania Skotarenko-Spicer