Our reasons for pursuing knowledge and an education vary from person to person, and from era to era throughout our individual lives. As we attain knowledge, the more we evolve and change as people, and the more confident we become over time. These are the kinds of reflections and meditations that are found in this collection of poetry and writing.

As the product of the “I Learn for You” creative writing workshop series conducted by DSTL Arts in partnership with Los Angeles Public Library–Adult Literacy Services, this unique chapbook gathers the writings of Adult Learners who are developing their literacy skills in English, individuals who are very cognizant of their desire to learn, and their reasons why.

Even if they never considered themselves poets, much less proficient writers before the workshops began, they soon came to realize that their power, their strength, lay in who they are.

These are the musings of the learned. These are the reflections of the wise. These are the collected voices of those whom inspire a dedication to learning within us all.

The “I Learn for You” workshop series and the printing of this publication was made possible, in part, thanks to the Ideas Grant Program available to Los Angeles Public Library staff, and the generous supporters of DSTL Arts, a 501c3 nonprofit arts mentorship organization that inspires, teaches, and hires emerging artists from underserved communities.