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Summer 2025 Issue 2

JANETH JACKSON

They Say

Speak up.
Shut up.
Lose weight:
You looked better bigger.
Try straightening your hair.
Wear a ponytail, please.
Embrace your natural.
Fix your face:
Dang, you can’t smile.
Don’t be gullible.
Pantsuits are best.
Show a little more skin.
Cover yourself up.
Don’t worry about a man.
You need to find a man.
It’s okay to play your cards.
Stop being a hoe.
Work harder.
Be patient.
Speak up.
Shut up.

JANETH JACKSON is a native of Moss Point, MS, who reecently earned her MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Mississippi.

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