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The inspiration for “Birthday in Silent War,2020” came from the scarce white birthday cake amidst social isolation due to COVID-19 shelter in place order. People were locked up in their homes, overpowered by the virus. The "Silent War" refers to the fight against the virus that is trying to take over our lives. A situation where people were coming together with ideas and actions to fight back against the virus, where even guns and bombs were impotent. Many losses have been felt and many are waiting to receive treatment. We are ignorant of the world's suffering even as the proverbial birthday comes around again. The reality of this silent war is present in the news as they tally the unbelievable number of our losses. The only contradiction and consolation, the brightly shining white cake. Without logic or reason, the candles on the cake are lit with no one else present and I wish for a bright new world again. However, the outside world, even without people, was already quiet with so much beauty.

Hana Jeong

hanajung9800@gmail.com