[Editor’s note: The Tyee challenged BC celebs to share their own teen angst poems in the run-up to our contest. Vancouver singer/songwriter Veda Hille rummaged through her teen years journals and delivered. So, the rest of you lily-livered stars, the challenge is on.]

This poem, from Veda Hille’s journal “sans irony,” was written on January 2, 1984.

I tear
without a sound
paths of fire down my cheeks
and I don't make a sound
and no one hears
and I don't make a sound
why should i make a sound
there is no one to give it to
and I don't need a sound

Veda Hille has been making records, staging events, and touring relentlessly since 1992. She has released 11 albums, the latest being Return of the Kildeer (Ape Records, released April 2005).