Editor’s Note
Welcome my dear reader
I’m sure you are wondering what elegant forms of literature lie beyond this page but first some details and thanks are in order. First, of course, I must introduce the house that this magazine comes from. A house that requires no introduction. We are Denson.
A house built upon victory and morals, who although stumbling in recent years, are back to reclaim our title as number one house, with House Writing being just one more challenge that stands in our way. Over the next 24 pages your mind shall be indulged in only the finest that Denson has to offer. An anthology built upon the fine arts, written words and the most heartfelt emotions, all imbued within the written work our fine students have produced.
First I must thank my lovely team of editors, made up of Andrew, Leo, Caleb F, Alfie, Caleb Y, Matthew, Charlie, Stanley, Sihath, Frankie, Veer and Ardirhan. These 12 men mentioned are the reason you are about to be blessed with what comes forth, and whom I couldn’t have done without.
Thanks must also undoubtedly be given to our marvelous Head of House, Mr Walker, who helped push for more and more out of our House, and has been a constant supportive advocate for our House Writing efforts.
I would also like to thank Myles from Year 11 for the front cover, Caleb F for the backgrounds and overall design and Alfie and Caleb Y for the back cover, for their efforts towards designing the magic your eyes will feast upon. No matter how late they were submitted, I deeply appreciate the time, effort and possibly black magic they put into their work as without them you’d probably be seeing a completely blank canvas.
And lastly, but most definitely not least, a huge thank you and well done to everyone who submitted and took part from Denson House. All of your efforts, from Year 7 all the way up to Year 13, were not disregarded at all. All 140 pieces were far beyond exceptional, but unfortunately there is a limit to both the number of pieces, and how much the font size can be shrunk, before it gets a bit silly
But enough chitter-chatter. It’s time for everything you’ve been waiting for. Go forth and traverse through the imagination that our house has to deliver and relish in its marvel.
Sincerely Yours, Diyon
Little More. Myles
G D11
The wind howls, a relentless force that seeps through my coat and the worn seams of Papa’s old gloves, biting into my skin. My fingers feel numb, stiffened by the cold, like the bare branches of trees stretching toward a sky that seems too wide and too empty. Snowflakes drift down, catching on my lashes, their brief warmth melting into something that feels like sorrow. I long to cry, but Mama’s voice holds me steady: be strong.
So we walk.
My boots are too big, stuffed with newspaper, but my toes still burn, then numb. I try to wiggle them. They don’t move. Mama’s hand is tight in mine—too tight, like she’s holding on for both of us. The scarf around my neck isn’t mine. It smells like my cousin. I don’t ask where she is. I already know Mama won’t answer
Behind us, the sky is on fire. I don’t look. I don’t have to. The heat presses against my back, even as the cold tries to swallow me whole. Home is gone. Papa is gone The only things left are the road, the dark trees, and the snow swallowing up our footprints as soon as we take another step
My legs shake. I am so tired. My stomach is hollow, but it doesn’t ache anymore. Somehow, that feels worse. I want to stop. Just for a second. Just to rest. But Mama pulls me forward.
"Just a little more, my love."
I don’t know what more is. I don’t know where there is
I only know the cold. The white stretching forever. And the silence where Papa’s voice used to be.
Prometheus
Matthew G D12
We began with stone.
The cold grip of caves cradling our fears
As firelight flickers against damp walls
A borrowed glow to fend from nights’ claw.
We were fragile then.
The earth trembles with our relentless yearning.
Nihilistic hopes embroidered in our innocence
Huddled beneath stars too vast to comprehend
Their rapacious glow blinded by dominion. Our ambition.
Our refuge was raw.
From storms that gnash and skies that fall
From streets where shadows swallow the poor
From wars that bleed hope into dust
We are but wanderers. Chasing the ephemeral.
The vulnerability of refuge.
We build our refuge from the ruins
A homeless man finds warmth in another’s coin
A golden stranger with empty hands
Holds open a door to someone broken.
Our refuge is pure.
Philanthropy flowers in the rubble of chaos
May wither, crumble, and diminish like ash,
But to shield, to nurture, to protect Burns eternal.
The truth of refuge
We are the hands that shield the ember,
The palms that cradle its fragile glow
The touch that augments the light,
The grasp that embraces the rising dawn.
Prometheus
Nature’s Shelter
Alfie T D8
Throughout the leaves, so green and bright,
A tired bird found a place to light
Its wings, weary from its long flight,
Rested softly, for the night.
The branches rocked, a gentle bed,
A safe spot from the breeze that spreads
It sang a song of dear relief,
In the tree’s branches, it found belief.
Colour in the sky began to wane,
As shadows fell across the plain.
The bird found comfort, to his delight
In the tree’s shelter, he spent the night
Escape to Serenity
Revon S D9
BECOME a part of Serenity, the last haven of peace in our troubled world. With civilization facing threats, take refuge in this utopian haven of tomorrow and enjoy a life of serenity
Why Choose Serenity?
1. Unblemished Safety
Step into a world… of safety. After all, it is protected by the latest security technology. Our state-of-the-art surveillance systems. Serenity is a safe haven.
2. Sustainable Living
Step into a world… where green energy and sustainable living reigns supreme. From renewable resources to upside down farms and solar panelled roofs, Serenity is designed to exist with nature; maximising our efficiency, preserving the Earth’s beauty for decades to come.
3. Advanced Healthcare
Step into a world… in which you can say goodbye to the fear of declining health standards. Serenity is home to worldclass medical facilities and cutting-edge tech guaranteeing the well-being of you. Here at Serenity, we far outperform any other facility - how could you expect anything better than us?
4. Unprecedented Education & Innovation
Step into a world… in which you empower yourself with access to world-class education and research facilities. Serenity's academies offer new opportunities thanks to our world-leading technological innovation.
The Cost…
As with all utopias, Serenity comes with a price. To maintain this idyllic society, citizens must constrain themselves to strict regulations. Expect your everyday life to be monitored, to enable the perfect home for you. Come to Serenity and live life in a whole new way. Soak up peace, progress, all within the secure embrace of our perfect utopian city.
Will you choose to prioritize the greater good over unrestricted liberty?
Welcome to Serenity. Take hold of your future.
Kung Fu Panda - Secret Ingredient Soup
Diyon S D12
Refuge. The one thing every man or woman yearns for without ever knowing. Every soul that has come into contact with our little planet has searched far and wide for that one thing or that particular place that calls for them. That welcomes them with open arms. That finally makes them feel whole and truly oneself But maybe our hunt was over before it began, as the treasure we seek was within ourselves all along
On 4th July 2008, the world was met with a film that most would assume to be another Jablinski Games’ special of fart jokes and fat roasts of a tubby panda. But instead the world crossed paths with a touching and profound story of not just a fat panda, but THE fat panda
At the beginning of the film we are quickly made aware of Po’s mighty dreams, quite literally in fact as the opening scene depicts him as a unstoppable warrior who wonders the land, his trues powers unknown as he lays wastes to thousands of soldiers with his idols, the Furious Five, at his side. But alas he awakens from his dreamy slumber and is dropped back down to reality where he is just a mere noodle shop helper of his father The goose
But that day would bring more than just dreams and noodles, as he makes his way over to the tournament to decide who of the Furious Five would be chosen to be the Dragon Warrior. This scene not only depicts to us the Five’s prowess but also Po’s strong-willed mind as he tries over and over to enter the arena after being locked out Luckily for him this mindset finally rewards him, as he falls into the arena from the sky Unluckily it seems for him though, he awakens from his fall to find Oogway has appointed him, yes him, as the Dragon Warrior, to which everyone, including Po and Shifu, find themselves dumbfounded at.
Over the course of the next 30 or so minutes we are shown Po’s relentless attitude towards Kung Fu, as we see him bounced around by both the seemingly hot and bothered Five and also the frustrated Shifu, yet he still returns This all comes to a boil when Po is told that he would have to stop Tai Lung, a long banished student of Shifu’s who previously laid waste to the land in his anger of not being chosen as the dragon warrior years before Po was. Po immediately runs, overwhelmed by the new duty placed on his shoulders But when confronted by Shifu about not running away before he explains his deep seeded love for Kung Fu and how he never felt more at home than at the Jade Palace He explains how for the first time in his life, he truly felt useful and worthy of being someone.
This idea is then revisited later when Po is leaving his home with the other villagers after finding out the Dragon Scroll is just a simple sheet of gold paper, showing the reflection of the holder Po’s goose father then explains that maybe there isn't a need for something special to be added to Po, a secret ingredient if you will, but that he is in fact enough. He is worthy of being the Dragon Warrior.
And so after a long winded battle with the ferocious leopard, Po finally puts a stop to his destruction, and with his final lines he tells us “I’m not a big fat panda, I’m THE big fat panda” His simple line portrays to the audience how Po has finally overcome his almost imposter-syndrome like situation, and that he has finally accepted himself as enough. Seemingly taking security and refuge in the thought.
And it is with this final scene that I feel we could all take a leaf from Often we search for refuge in other places or the many people within our lives But maybe the true thing we seeked didn’t require any sort of special ingredient at all. But in fact it was within ourselves all along.
The perfect ingredient if you ask me
Where is Refuge?
Gabriel H D8
Refuge isn’t something you seek
It’s a place you know
It might be in your home
Or even under a glass dome
It may be small, maybe tall
Wherever it is, it has a meaning
It gives you a sense of security
Many people seek refuge
They may come here there or anywhere
Or even some secret lair
People travel far to get to their destination
Some get there with much hesitation
Others it's a straight line
It may be a great quest accompanied by a pest But they’re just doing what’s best
It’s a task like no other
Running away from the known
With no knowledge of the unknown
And a task with many groans
Refuge isn’t something you seek
It’s a place you know
It might be in your home
Or even under a glass dome
Refugee Hostel
Sukhjot M D8
They arrive with tears of hope,
Through weary roads and endless skies:
a warm light, an open door, and a shelter standing strong against the storm.
Heavy footsteps, hearts still bright,
Dreams are not lost, just out of sight. Here’s a bed, a place to rest - "You are blessed," I whisper low,
As soft shadows dance in the fading light.
No bars, no chains, no walls of fear, Just healing scars and hands held near
A haven now, though paths are unknown, until they find a place called home - where laughter echoes, and love has grown.
Safe Haven
Ryan DJ D9
In the decrepit back alleys of London in 1927 a child named Winston Gilbert, meandered aimlessly, looking for some purpose to his desolate life; once a child with a normal and happy life, yet due to a tragedy in which both his parents succumbed to disease, he was left orphaned and homeless, left to the harsh world of rural London. Many days he would often sit and stare, hungry and sad, yet he still yearned for the day when he would be able to lead a happy life again.
One frigid, stormy night, as Winston was roaming the streets, searching for food scraps, he came upon an area of London, hidden far away inside the alleys of London and stumbled onto, what looked like a house. Next to the house was a suspicious door which led underground into some kind of basement. The door to the basement was unlocked and thinking to himself that it was a nice refuge away from the cold and rain, and thinking that no one would find him here, he decided to go in steeling his nerves
Hesitantly stepping foot into the basement, Winston saw that there was a light switch and turned it on. The room itself was nothing extraordinary and was home to some tools and other stuff that was being stored there by the owner. Walking further in he saw a mattress hidden away in the corner of the basement and made his way over to it. Desperate for some good sleep, he cleared a small area and moved the bed there gathering any other supplies, like food or medicine he would need an old curtain which he decided to use as a blanket. Settling down and cosying up, Winston thought of how lucky he was
Suddenly he heard the door of the basement open, accompanied by the sound of two people chatting with each other. Panic building, he decided to try and hide. As he strained to hear their conversation he heard of how they were going to be needing more money to feed their baby and how they could probably sell something down here. They then noticed the sleeping area Winston set up and exclaimed their surprise. The man who he assumed was the husband shouted ”Who’s in here?!”, Feeling like it would be harder for him to explain himself if he was to be found by the couple after trying to hide he decided to come out and show himself
The couple were shocked to see him in his dirty wet clothes and asked him who he was. Explaining that he was a homeless child looking for shelter from the rain, Winston was shocked when the couple looked at him sadly and asked if he had no parents. When he said no the wife turned to the husband and said that they should help him. The husband agreed and they let Winston stay the night and took him to the orphanage in the morning.
Once at the orphanage, he was asked about his life story and when he had finished he was given some clean clothes and told that he would be able to stay here and that he would be able to have regular meals and a clean home to stay in. Overjoyed at this, Winston vowed to make his life better and never again have to resort to breaking into someone else’s house to survive
More than 120 million refugees were forcibly displaced from their homes because of persecution, conflict, violence or human rights violations (by May 2024).
At the end of September 2024, more than 52,739 refugees had been granted protection or other leave at initial decision by the UK authorities.
As of the 10th of February 2025 1,554 people had crossed the English channel in small boats to seek refuge in Britain.
A refugee is someone who is forced or displaced from their home country because of multiple factors. They have to seek refuge in other countries for safety.
Most refugees come from Sudan, Syria, Eritrea, Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran or Albania. Refugees from Afghanistan and Syria make up the largest proportion of refugees globally (approximately 30%)
The reasons people leave can be social, political or physical factors.
Social factors are connected to people’s beliefs and way of life. People can be persecuted in countries because of their religious beliefs
People are being persecuted in Myanmar because they are Muslim and in Pakistan because they are Hindu, they are known as religious refugees.
Physical factors affect populations and force people to become refugees because of the climate. This is increasing with the extreme weather events caused by climate change. Countries that have had a number of droughts make it hard for people to grow crops for food, food shortages and hunger has increased. Communities leave their homes in search for shelter, healthcare and security because of natural disasters
Political factors relate to the way the country is governed and how it affects citizens because of the decisions made Some governments make decisions where they do not think about how it will affect the people living there Political disagreements often lead to wars This causes people to leave because of conflict, either countries fighting each other or civil war. People flee to find safe places as they fear their lives are in grave danger
The journeys refugees take for a hope of a better future, can also contain huge amounts of danger and fear Some people risk falling into the trap of human trafficking and other forms of exploitation.
Some refugees are detained by authorities as soon as they have arrived in the country Most refugees will face daily racism, xenophobia and discrimination, after they have started their new life
Many people often try to cross the English channel to seek refuge in the UK. Most people cross the channel, with hopes of finding jobs and joining family, who are already living in the UK Often, people are separated from their families when they try to find safety, it can take many years before they see each other again
People knowing the language gives them the best chance of rebuilding their lives. It is much easier for them to do things as they will vaguely understand what people are saying
Some people are forced to rely on smugglers to get them to a safe place This is all too often as there are no official routes for refugees coming to the UK. People often don’t know where they are going when they are in the hands of smugglers
Right now nobody seems to know how to help these people at their most difficult times. It is a humanitarian crisis on a global scale
Lost Mason FL D8
Here I have nothing for me, nowhere to call home, For the fighting caused me to lose everything, family and all, Now all I can do to comfort myself, is talk to a garden gnome, Living with the bare minimum, and sleeping by this new town’s village hall,
There were destroyed houses everywhere, I was climbing through debris Buildings that once stood like mountains now piled on the floor I often cannot help but think about those who were less fortunate than me No sight of loved or a house, not even the sturdy, oak front door
My home city was once a concrete jungle as some would say, Once a place where many lived worked and loved, And at the snap of someone’s fingers, like a gust of wind, it all blew away Like a wall in the way that was simply just shoved
My thoughts, repents and regrets all stem From the phrase ‘You never appreciate things until you lose them.’
How Refuge Saved Me
Sihath M D12
In the dismal darkness, where silence dwells, I found the light, I broke free from hell
A heart once heavy from the wrath of my spouse, From the kindness of refuge, I found my house.
Every teardrop that fell, my story was written, Of abuse and adversity, of trials and tribulations, But in the shelter of refuge, cozy and bright, I built up the strength to face every day and night.
Gratitude fills my soul to the brim, For my mentor and all the staff who supported me through grim In the arms of compassion, I restored my goals Healed my scars, and mended my soul.
I’m thankful for those who taught me to fight, Who gave me the courage to see the light Who gifted me with the warmth of my freedom, Moments ago I was unable to fathom..
With every hour at home, my character formed, I learned how to smile, in the way I once yearned The traumatic memories of the past will haunt me no longer, As my mended soul moves on, now much stronger.
So to all those at home who devoted themselves to me, All the mentors, staff, and supporters greeted me with glee From the bottom of my heart, I sincerely thank you, Because your devotion and love have saved me from gloom
Floods
Daniel Y D11
Refuge is seen everywhere, But is only acquired by few, Because although it is rare, It is nothing new
From people who come from nothing
To those who are well-to-do
People seek refuge
From the raging blue
It means many things
But only few comprehend what it takes and brings, Solace, security, support
Although for some it may only be a last resort
When shelter is found
But the fluid enemy approaches
Propagating like cockroaches
The refugee may have to seek high ground
Return to the embrace of home
Obi O D10
In whispered woods, where shadows play, A gentle heart will find its way; Beneath the boughs, in calm embrace, Refuge blooms - a sacred space.
The destruction we left behind, Was too much for our youthful minds; The tragic tears that we all wept, Losing the belongings we had dearly kept:
With every breath, the worries cease, For in nature's arms, we find our peace
Where the sunbeams dance, leaves so green, A hidden world, serene, unseen.
A Refugee’s Journey
Zafirur R D8
Susan gripped Jack’s small hand as they stepped onto the overcrowded boat. The air was thick with salt and fear. Around them, families huddled together, whispering prayers to an indifferent sea. The distant lights of their war-torn city flickered one last time before disappearing into the night.
The journey was merciless. Waves crashed against the boat’s frail wooden frame, each one threatening to swallow them whole. Children whimpered, mothers held them close, and fathers stared blankly at the endless horizon. Hunger gnawed at their stomachs, and exhaustion clung to their bones
One night, the storm came. A monstrous wave struck, throwing Susan off balance. She barely managed to keep hold of Jack as cold water rushed over them. A man was swept overboard. His scream cut through the dark before the sea swallowed him whole
By dawn, the storm had passed, but the boat was barely holding together. Jack, shivering in her arms, looked up with tired eyes. "Mama, are we almost there?"
Susan didn’t know how to answer. The shore they sought was still unseen, an uncertain promise. But she couldn't let him lose hope She stroked his damp hair and forced a smile.
"Yes, son. We are close."
Hours later, someone pointed ahead. A strip of land appeared on the horizon, golden under the rising sun. The boat erupted with cries of relief. Tears mixed with seawater on Leila’s cheeks
As they neared the shore, men in uniforms waited. Some held blankets, others held papers. Susan held Jack close, stepping onto the land that was supposed to be their refuge. She didn’t know what lay ahead - only that she had no choice but to keep moving.
Exam Emotions
Andrew J D12
22nd May 2024 (2 weeks until GCSEs begin)
Dear Diary,
I looked out of the window; the curtains obscured my view of the rising sun which sent scarlet streams dancing through the sky. I felt as though this mirrored me - casting a metaphor for the skulking thoughts melting through my brain, only brighter, filled with more hope than I could ever feel.
I’ve always felt that feelings could change quickly. My head, overcome with stress and weight, could at any point be fully let go; allowing me to relax into a comforting refuge of happiness and laughter - but it can happen the other way as well: the cord of anger can be pulled on a period of joy, bringing it to an abrupt end.
The overload of emotion and stress attacks me, striking me unable to act, fabricating a horrendous guilt as I conceded to time, allowing it to pass, allowing the horror ahead to draw ever closer
I needed an escape, as I always do now. The need becomes greater daily as the day approaches and the phantom inside me rises, engulfing my thoughts like fog obscuring a vision. Luckily, I know where to go. The easiest way to chain the monster
I reach out, my fingers gliding over the paper, flicking through until I found my spot.
My muscles tense, angling my head downwards, until my eyes fix on the words jumping in front of me. A moment's pause and then it clicks. The fog within my head disappears
Your Refuge
Anthony D D8
In a place where everything is ok
A place where promises nor hearts can be broken
Where all wounds can heal
A place where you can unload your burdens
A quiet place where we feel like we belong
Somewhere where the rest of the world suddenly doesn’t matter
A place called refuge
Where you feel safe and at home
Anything dark turns bright
Anything wrong gets blocked out
A place where you can dream your dreams
A place where no one can judge you
Everyone has a place of refuge
Do you have one?
The Boy who survived Ethan M D9
The forest was densely packed with trees and plants that reached high in the sky. A young boy called Jacob, who was around the age of 13, was sprinting through the forest as fast as he could, making sure the Sudan soldiers would not find him. He was about 13 miles from the border, a long way to run, yet he knew of a small village on a 30 minute run which could supply him with a bike and some food to take on the strenuous journey to the border. As he arrived, he was greeted by a sweet old man who would always greet him as he passed through the small village, his name was Jack. He was the village's chief and the owner of a small food stand where he would sell bread and soup for cheap. Jacob gave all the remaining money his mother gave him to flee the country and have a happy life. Jacob then left the village with his bicycle and food he had brought from the old man, he set off on his long and brutal journey through dense forests, vast rivers, and huge mountains the size of skyscrapers.
It was noon when Jacob had finally stopped to rest and eat. As soon as he was done, he was back on his feet ready to trek some more. The next day, as soon as morning arrived, Jacob hid up in a tree due to lots of footsteps, presumably the soldiers hunting him down. Luckily, he was not spotted and then continued on his journey after two stressful days of relentless running, he finally arrived at the border, he had finally escaped from the war of the countries, two sides, and was free from any harm.
The Endless Suffering of the Refugees
Azeem M D8
Bombing, screaming, sirens wailing
That is the sound of terror
Shards of glass flying in the air
Parents at all costs, trying to keep their kids safe
The endless suffering of the refugees
Kids dying, bodies flying
The endless suffering of the refugees
Escaping and hiding in places which promise to help
But it is nothing as they expect
Days become weeks and weeks become months.
The endless suffering of the refugees
Being called shouted, and screamed to leave this land and return to where they came from.
The endless suffering of refugees
Names are being called, and hands are being thrown
The endless suffering of the refugees
Depression and anxiety begin to fill up until it is no more
The endless suffering of the refugees
The country that once promised a safe place to be now has turned on them
The endless suffering of the refugees…
Home to Ithaca
Chaitanya B D9
Beyond the city of the burning Troy, And into the miles of the open sea, A soldier, bold and brave, like a lion’s son Outwitting all who seek to hinder thee.
A soldier, a king, a father, Fighting hard to return home to his kingdom, wife and son, Facing a variety of foes from a wide range of places, in which he needs to work smarter, Gods, monsters, hostile creatures, whom he has to run from.
Facing many throughout his journey like the Cyclopes' cave and the sirens’ song, And facing the wrath of Poseidon - God of the Tide,
Yet he still remains fierce and strong, And every inch of him getting closer to home, he looms with pride.
The man that is known for his ingenious, Shall make it back home, as the Great Odysseus
What is Refuge?
Rory F D7
A Latin word, derived from “refugium” A place of asylum, Used by Chaucer in 1405, But what does it mean to me?
Now it is protection and shelter, Being safe from danger, from difficulty, Absent from the lives of many, But what does it mean to me?
Home, family, warmth, food, Love, safety, pets and hobbies, Perhaps unique to everyoneThat’s what it means to me
We seek refuge in TV and video games
Even on aeroplanes, In moving frames, refuge we seek. They animate the back of the seat in front. In the blue hue we seek refuge.
We seek refuge in his or her message, Across time zones, borders, and seas
Do not be fooled: Our refugee is not seeking asylum, She just needs a hug and a cup of tea In the warmth we seek refuge
We seek refuge in breaking news, The thrill of the big red font. Enthralled by, addicted to, crisis We tango with our restless minds
The stark contrast between the screen and daily life
Still we seek: we love the strife, It gives us our refuge.
We seek refuge in the thoughts Of the mind of all things of all time; In the past, present and future, We seek refuge.
The Altar Manas T D13
We dwell on our mistakes of the past: The guilt and the shame
We examine what may go wrong in the future In great detail. Or we attach ourselves to a fixed outcome. Even in the present we seek refuge; “So many things to do” - where do we start?
So our refugee never begins
Why do we seek refuge?
What do we seek refuge from?
To seek refuge - is it wrong?
Our refuge is the Lord’s song
To escape from the intellect, We seek refuge.
To seek refuge from the thralls of life is not wrong. But a life in the thralls of the wrong refuges Will not be fun for long
Our refuge is the Lord’s song. Of Righteousness, of Truth, of Duty and Virtue, Of Bravery and Courage and Valour and Strength. When the refuge changes, Our actions submit
There is an epic conflict in our minds, A battle between the impulse and the intellect. The only way for the intellect to win? Change the refuges from within; We must seek shelter at the highest altar.
We seek refuge
No longer in the past, future Or present. Instead, the altar
Is our guiding light.
When this is understood, Life becomes pleasant
We may still seek refuge in TV and video games, In moving frames, refuge we may seek. In his or her message, in the breaking news
Aching for the warmth, and Yearning in the thoughts
We may continue seeking refuge.
However, now that an almighty refuge is identified, An altar of high, It will no longer be us seeking refuge, But rather the refuge seeking our altar’s time.
Bake the World a Better Place
Jeremy M D10
Ingredients
A spoon of empathy:
To understand people’s situations
A handful of courage:
To take action and help people in need
A cup full of compassion:
To see what happened to them, and be willing to help
Instructions
1.Mix empathy and compassion:
Not only to understand what a person may have been through but to see it through their perspective
2. Preheat the oven:
To really help some to find refuge, do be something little or large; educate yourself about the problem
3. Add some courage to the mixture:
Try to give the person hope; make sure that they know that they're not alone.
4. Put into oven until fully risen and then enjoy:
Helping someone takes some time, so be patient and keep trying
Rahim H D7
Where people gather, Or rather, Fear with tearsWhen difficulty strikes, And they flee, Pleading on their knees, Shelter wherever, Protection however, Communication never.
What life is left as sacrifice, A new journey as paradise. As heartbeats thump, Emotions run. ‘What will be of me?’
Why to me, Why do I face this pain, In this lashing rain, Standing in a wretched lane, Wishing for lifeWishing for life.
Refugee Poem
Hope, will and safety
Passive Isn’t A Passage
Oscar R D10
Three things we inspire to feel and aspire.
But for the ones who miss out and those who live without, we look on.
We don’t interject or intervene but like a machine we do a passive job that leaves anything else forgotten.
Oblivious to the world and what people miss or watch the news as the affected fall into our minds abyss.
A family dinner conversation that led to our prolonged probation of helping healing hurt. But why look on and not behind to see that in their state of mind fear strikes what we don’t know and we don’t realise what we owe.
To run away, not look behind takes more than we see in our minds
And the little aid that we send out is more or less a subdued shout, heard by no one. The struggles found when keeping score like hiding out, away from war
The hope and will when the safe is gone gives them the drive to carry on but we watch from the sidelines and we keep score and don’t help them hide from a war.
But how loud is the cold and dark when we ignite our silent spark, years after they’ve come and gone and all we’ve done is carry on.
The nothing we’ve done, we haven’t felt but it takes all their strength and wealth and we then live to know our pitiful pennies put no promise for their hope.
Their will.
Their safety
Sanctuary
William B D9
In the dark shadows, I wander, looking, for a place where I can finally rest
I dream of a world, that softens into a silence.
A gentle hand, the embrace I dream of, calls me from my hidden shadow: where all the world’s noise fades, and time slows to a gentle flow; each breath is a step towards peace
Each breath, a step nearer, To the sanctuary I dream of: The sanctuary I carve out of my mind.
The Shelter In The Distance
Syem F D9
The wind howled by his ears, and the footsteps nearly instantly erased from the constant sheets of snow. The storm seemed to come faster than expected, slowly swallowing him in the midst of trouble. There was no turning back now
Then, through the swirling snow, the traveller noticed a bit of red among the bright white snow - a structure on the mountainside. He thought for a moment, and an idea began to form amongst his thoughts of survival . It could be a refuge hut for adventurers like him, stranded in a time of need. He decided to trek as fast as possible towards the hut, only to soon realise a light was on, indicating that someone might be in there.
While walking, he began to feel numb all over and his breath faster than usual with mist steaming from his breath, but he persevered with the instinct of survival chanting him on.
When he arrived at the hut, he hesitated. Someone was in there. But who? He opened the door, with the only other option of him going back into the bitter flurry of ice, snow and wind.
There sat a dark shadow, covered in layers of fleece and coats, an emotionless face, nearly as pale as the snow outside. He didn’t move. He didn’t speak.
The stranger took a slow and deep breath and suddenly reached into his pocket, startling the traveller. He scrummaged around for a second, the traveller staring at him in interest of what he was going to get, and pulled out a small sack, in it a piece of bread.
“There's no point fighting that nasty storm out there alone,” said the stranger
The traveller hesitated, then took the bread. The fire slowly started to feel warm, his body started to regain strength, and the cabin felt more like a place to rest rather than to survive
It was the first time in days that the traveller felt safe
A Recipe for Refuge
Musa H D8
Ingredients: Good Evidence
Testimony
Documentary Evidence
Applications based on a partner
Applications based on a child
Directions on how to Prepare
Step 1
First of all, to start off you will need to provide some evidence to show that you would not be safe back home in your home country. This could be provided in a Testimony and could include why it is safer for you in the UK
Step 2
Next, you may need to provide Documentary Evidence which is used to establish aspects of your accounts. This will make your case more credible and you are more likely to gain protection.
Step 3
In a spouse, civil or unmarried partner visa application, applicants must show that they are in a genuine and subsisting relationship with their partner. The requirement must be met in both the initial visa application to enter the UK, and the extension application once the partner is already here
Step 4
If you are applying for the right to remain in the UK and you have a child or children, in many cases your child will be part of your application as a dependent. If your application is successful, they will usually get leave to remain in line with yours. when you are not eligible for immigration status in your own right, but your child has or could have the right
Proving time spent in the UK to remain. In these situations, you may be able to apply for the right to remain in the UK because you are their parent
Step 5
Once you apply for a settlement or for naturalisation as a British Citizen, you are asked to provide proof of continuous residence in the UK as part of the visa application process and you will need to provide evidence that shows that you have been present in the UK for a specific period of time
Refugee livelihoods in the digital age
Charlie G D12
In the information age, there has been rapid development in automation, technology and the uses of artificial intelligence. All these fields have shown how great strides through research can create new job opportunities whilst also risking the loss of jobs for many. The digitalisation of the workspace has left those without access to this technological advancement at a disadvantage (since the large amounts of investment into the field causes frequent changes to the technology and its uses).
This issue is becoming increasingly prominent and has had many articles written about the issue (such as one by the International Labour Organisation). Technology both poses a serious issue to refugees through the barrier of unfamiliar technology and provides opportunities through new sources of income. The digital age may also be able to provide unparalleled emotional support to refugees through connecting to people through social media and having access to vital information on healthcare, education and housing aid which is available. Through the use of digital platforms and online courses, refugees could improve language skills, gain new qualifications and better integrate into their new societies.
Whilst many opportunities are available, these are almost exclusively for those who have access to reliable internet and computers. For many who do not have access to these when attempting to enter an increasingly digitised workforce they will only be faced with the challenge of using systems which they are unfamiliar with and lacking the support which others have available to them - placing them at a massive disadvantage. Security and privacy concerns are also of concern because of refugees being at a heightened risk of exploitation and manipulation.
Whilst technology has improved the lives of many, it is essential for successful integration between cultures if people can fully benefit from the digital age whilst overcoming newfound challenges
Caleb F D12
With the sky as their limit, birds reside in the trees
With the fish below, they find sustenance with ease
Covered in fur from head to toe, bears rest in their dens
While I continue to wonder this lifeless rock, to no end
For as long as I can remember, I haven’t had a home
Migrating from place to place, nowhere to call my own
Straggling for food and trying to survive
Always wondering when my time will arrive
I was all on my lone-some, drowning in my depression
Until a kind, loving woman gracefully descended from heaven
Hair as dark as the void in my heart and eyes as blue as the summer’s sky
She held out her hand
She said she could help me
It was such a beautiful sight, it could make a grown man cry
We locked eyes for the first time; I had been encased in a warm light
“I can help you start a new” the angel calmly said
This was an opportunity - a second chance - to make everything right
All I had to do was nod my head
And she took me to a place, filled with many such as myself
I was given a bed, clean clothes, food, and a promised a chance to gain wealth
Though it was difficult, I worked with great determination
And I eventually made it, without succumbing to frustration
My old self was gone, a new was born I had persevered and endured
As I promised to myself all those years ago
With the sky as their limit, birds reside in the trees
With the fish below, they find sustenance with ease
I still wander those same streets, all those years ago
I strive to reach someone, one who has reached a plateau
I walk with my suit and tie; I walk with my head held high
Through this sadness and despair, only one catches my eye
A young lean man, looks as though he has been through hell and back
I approach with intent and hold out my hand
“How would you like a fresh start?”
His expression changed, his eyes now had intent
All that pain and discomfort, that anxiety and torment
Had vanished
He had been given a chance to start a new
Musical Absolution Lukas
Homework; the maths sheet took up most of the afternoon Planning; the presentation took up most of the evening Socialising; the family needs to know I’m still alive.
Dreary; the workload from which I resist its relentless onslaught.
Desperation; the sensation which urges me to cease the struggle and retreat to the infirmary So I do Slamming the textbook shut with quivering distress, I pick myself up, march over and fall through the bed… shattered.
There I lie, addicted to the comfort but never satisfied, the stress a dull ache in my mind. A short eternity passes as I reconcile my thoughts, when at last I reach for my headphones. A scroll, a thought, and a lazy decision lead me to what I need most - smooth jazz I press play and let the soulful tunes fill me up
It begins warm, easy, with some tambourines and guitar chords, and the room slips away as I escape to a world where life flows and I can move to the dancing rhythm Pianos and saxes play around, clambering over each other, the melody elevating my heart, soothing my being, and at some point I find myself lost. Right here, right now, nothing exists but the melody and the tap-tap-tap of my fingers drumming along to the rise, the fall, the mix-up. Harmony enters the ears and works its way around my body - projecting dreams onto my closed eyelids, tasting of a warm, delicious dinner Body numb Thoughts are silenced by the music
I am nowhere, for right now there is nowhere I must be
The Island Beyond the Ocean
Max R D8
There is an island beyond the ocean
There is an island beyond the stars
There is an island that welcomes you With Smiling faces and open arms
There is an island where no one can reach you
There is an island where you get peace
There is an island where not a single soul
Can interrupt or stare like a cockatrice
There is an island where no one can harm you
There is an island where people love
There is an island where all the people
Help and support like a dove
There is an island where you can have fun
There is an island where you are free
There is an island with no responsibilities
An escape from reality
Yet many islands are not this way
Some are dark, gloomy, and sad
These islands don’t always make it And many don’t understand
These islands are our refuge
They should be happy and glorious and full of light -
But the ones stuck in a dark, eternal winter
Need someone to guide them through the night.
Hrishik S D13
In cavernous depths, the soul watches
The flickering shadows of emotions
As Plato’s Cave blotches Views of genuine solutions.
In love, it sees manipulation And in friendship, patronisation And in guidance, conditions Of self degradation
In lenses with a red tint of hate
Blinded by the green of cynicism Or narcissism as if it were fate
As if the only solution was criticism And blame
But the eternal hand is offered In solace and in trust
To unchain the absurd And bring it up from the dust
Bringing purpose and vigour
In seeing something bigger Than the maelstrom of dark fear And twisting the gears
To remove the blindfold Of regression and self pity
Refuge and peace
In chaos where the keys
To escape are rusted and misshapen, Jammed into the wrong locks, in search of a safe haven.
Even in refuge, It becomes hard to avoid the deluge
Of self doubt, that refuge Is a trap, wrapped in a dream.
Dear Diary...
Srijan K D11
Dear Diary,
Today was my thirteenth day in the Smiths’ household. I will always be grateful for their benevolence and how welcoming they were, but the envy inside of me was making it harder and harder to live in tranquillity. They were a perfect family. We were a perfect family.
Tomorrow will mark one year since Mum and Dad died. I don’t go a single day without reminiscing how inseparable we were as a family and each time I see Mr Smith buying a gift for Isla, I remember Dad. Just one year ago, we celebrated my birthday, and little did I know I would have to seek refuge in England due to the war. If I had one wish, I would tell Mum and Dad how much I loved them and ask Dad for some advice; he always knew what to say. However isolated I feel, I can’t let this jealousy take me over.
Waking up every morning seeing them eat breakfast as a family feels like a knife pushed deeper and deeper into my chest. We used to do that. Sometimes, I close my eyes and try to remember everything I left behind, but it's hard to let go of those memories when everything feels so uncertain. I know everyday holds a new opportunity and I need to be more appreciative of my fortune in seeking refuge with such a doting family. I know my gratitude will overpower this; I just miss them.
Change & Choices
Leo P D12
The world can only change. It is a mantra that lives with us from life to death: the idea that change engulfs us in our day-to-day lives. Yesterday’s safe space becomes today’s disorder; tomorrow’s refuge lies within today’s deepest uncomfortable nuances. Hence, the idea of one singular site of refuge is one that could be doubtlessly disputed. Imagine any “safe place” - today, it might be a haven; in a year, it will look a bit messier; in ten it will really begin to show its age; in a hundred it could be completely gone. Refuge - safety in places - is a fallacy.
What is a more known truth, however, is the idea that a person can take refuge in and around their emotions. “You can’t escape the past”: another mantra that I dispute wholeheartedly. The past can sting, can hurt more than a silver bullet, but long-term solutions are invaluable to beget a sense of contentment within oneself. Every person on this planet is unique, and everybody has surely gone through their own fair share of experiences - some good, and some bad. So, for those who have dragged themselves through the hardest parts of life entirely, how should they smile again?
The answer truly lies within a per-person basis. The past can be a harrowing truth for many, but it can change. The world can only change. Unlike safe places eroding away with time, a person’s emotions work the opposite; they heal with time. This timespan varies, and depends on the sheer will of the individual in question, but for those in search of a concrete, permanent refuge from the world: the answer lies within yourself. Refuge can truly be achieved, not necessarily by hiding physically, but instead looking behind the front of your emotions, and making peace with yourself
To my dear siblings,
How are you all? I hope that you are still keeping strong.
Never in my life did I expect to be so far away, stranded in another country for months on end, with no hope of returning home. However, this is the situation that arises from such a bloody, brutal war. To be separated for months on end from my dear siblings, not knowing if I will ever see them again it has felt like having my heart torn out of my chest. But I am sure that nothing compares to the constant anxiety that you must have in thinking about me, and each other, and poor Mama
How is our Mama? I cannot imagine the constant sound of cannons and rifles has left her in a good state of mind. I recall reading in your last letter about her constant screaming and screeching at the noise - it breaks my heart to hear that the voice that once set our screaming infant voices to ease with song now screams with endless unease, with no song to ease her mind. Please take care of her.
I really wanted to return home after my graduation at the woodworking academy in Winchuss. I had so many gifts in hand, all handcrafted for each of you, and I really wanted to give them. But once the Invasion of the Borderlands began, everything was lost. My hand-crafted carvings and toys - all repurposed for the war effort. My fellow students and treasured masters - all displaced or dead. And my hopes of getting home, shattered and strewn everywhere like the shrapnel on the battlefields.
A Piece of Peace
Chintu M D9
The sea is wild, the sky is gray Winds blow fiercely at the dawn of the day
But within the house, it was silent and still The waves crash low and the tides grow chill
A battered ship, its crew were tossed
By storms of fate and tempests lost
Yet in this bay, I find my peace
A place where all my troubles cease
The cliffs stand firm, the sands embrace
A refuge set in time and space
No siren’s ring, no phone calls flare
Just eternal rest beneath the stars and no despair
I close my eyes and let the sorrows fade
Safe at last in the cooling shade
My heart finally has understood inner peace
I can finally live my life calmly in one piece
