Scallion Pancakes
Albany Blackburn

​I work the dough beneath my hands, 
familiarly. I am making myself dinner tonight.

            My heart is in Atlanta, grieving. I know it has
            every right to be, but still, sometimes, I doubt.

The dough is sticky, supple, and soft -- wonderfully 
elastic. But yet, somehow still so firm and steadfast.

            When I was in fourth grade, a girl on the bus pulled her eyes back at me.
            In high school, my friends marveled at the enunciation of my tones.

I roll the dough flat and bring it to life. Sesame oil, green 
onions, and five-spice: the ichor flowing through its veins.

            My lao lao lived with us for two years. 
            We could never talk to one another.

I wrap the dough in a spiral, first lengthwise, then around.
It has trouble sticking to itself, without some gentle prods.

            The woman selling makeup remarked how I was much 
            lighter than she thought. My foundation is called “Bisque.”

The dough then goes into the pan, golden
flakes bubbling up against the pale disk.

            If my brother were here, he’d make a grilled cheese 
            instead. I used to be like him, but I’m glad I have matured.

When was the last time I called home? 
I will tell my mom that I made her recipe soon.

Albany is from Nardin, OK and is currently a physics major at Harvey Mudd. (Harvey Mudd College '23)