The so-called 'Creativity Corner' of the Los Angeles Times – a forum for children's poetry – took on a decidedly sinister tone recently, when nine year old Gabi submitted a vivid and visceral verse beyond her years.

To give you an idea of the competition, the first published poem was this one, by Christopher, age 9:

Then there was this one, by Skylar, age 8:

No ocean waves and pretty parakeets for this young writer, who is more concerned with metaphysical imagery than shining seashells. Sure the lyricism is impressive but if we were Gabi's parents, we'd be sleeping with one eye open tonight.

Here's her poem in full:

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