My youngest, who is in the sixth grade, is studying poetry in his English class. Now, for those who don't know Michael, he is a typical 12-year-old boy who loves video games, Legos, D&D, and Nerf guns. He also belongs to the Mathletic Club, is a black belt in Taekwondo, and always has his nose buried in a book.
(Can you tell, I'm a bit proud of him?)
Last night, he let me read the poetry he has written for his school project and I was touched by his work. He had spent hours toiling over his poetry, trying to find just the right words. I think he succeeded.
My favorite might be Michael's I Am poem. If you are unfamiliar with the style, an I Am poem follows a particular format. The first two words of each line are given and the author completes each thought. It's a great project for kids, or for anyone experimenting with poetry.
Here is Michael's I Am poem (shared with his permission):
I Am
I am Smart, I am Creative
I wonder what else is there to learn
I hear the merry sound of laughter
I see the swords and shields of honor
I want to be trained with a sword
I am Smart, I am Creative
I pretend I am in the books right next to the characters
I feel sorrow to those who have died
I touch the soft steel of a blade
I worry about the lives of other people
I cry over unnecessary death
I am Smart, I am Creative
I understand what others think
I say Justice for all
I dream
I try for greatness
I hope for world peace
I am Smart, I am Creative
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