News and Media News stories National Poetry Day 2021 Today, 7th October, is National Poetry Day. We receive lots of poems written by prisoners around the world, who often tell us how creativity in prison helps their well-being. Here is a selection of poems written by people we are supporting in prisons overseas. Bargain A destiny is what you’re born with It stays with you throughout your life A blueprint mapping how you’ll live Like braille on paper for the blind It can’t be read by your own eyes It leads the way to live and die And on the way you’ll realise You’ll never change it, how hard you try There’s no point even questioning God’s plan for you, the way He moves The challenges are His way of testing If what’s around is really true Sometimes you’ll sit and shake your head And think how this could happen Just get up and try again It’s never easy, there’s no bargain Written by a prisoner in Germany Home It’s not so wrong for my eyes to release Please, thinking of my loved ones this autumn Breeze, and all the things I had achieved. When I look into the sky I feel so free, freedom Is just a dream for me. God I wish it will Soon be, I hate this place, it’s so not me. Memories and photos of what I had, thinking Of the wife and my life I once had. So many good times it makes me very sad, knowing That my son has not got his dad. I’m so glad we talk on the phone, and you’re With your mum and not alone. Thinking of you and how you have grown, Makes me want to be at home. Written by a prisoner in Bulgaria Last kiss It was autumn when we had our last kiss, Over all those people I love, You are the only one I miss It was so hard seeing you cry They didn’t give us chance to say goodbye I know you are sad and lonely But this won’t last forever, surely Soon will be our ten-year anniversary What is happening to us remains a mystery Your blood running through my vein Sending messages to my brain, That soon we will kiss again. Written by an anonymous service user Prisoners Abroad When you’re scared and really down No need to cry and stress. Prisoners Abroad will help you to express. When you’re confused about your mess Prisoners Abroad will help and do their best When sometimes things are difficult with family and friends Prisoners Abroad will help you try to make amends. When you have no money for stamps, don’t pout Prisoners Abroad freepost envelopes they will send. When you want to read and study but have nowt, Prisoners Abroad will help without a doubt. Prisoners Abroad, a small team of people who care, No matter what crime you committed. Prisoners Abroad are always there. Prisoners Abroad helped and supported me. You helped me to achieve, Gave me the confidence to believe. Prisoners Abroad, thank you for all you have done. Prisoners Abroad I won’t forget you when I leave… Written by HV, a prisoner in Japan We publish a selection of poems and artwork in our newsletters three times a year. Manage Cookie Preferences