Simplicity with William Carlos Williams

His poem, "This is Just to Say" is a simple, 'found poem' format whereas the line breaks of the poem drives the poetry. A very basic poem broken up in three stanzas, Williams focuses on apologizing for eating the last plum in the refrigerator. A wonderful way to say, "I apologize" for inconveniencing you by the poet was very relatable to the students at Reed Elementary. We discussed food or drink items, family or friends have taken, or the affect of apologizing to someone for something done in the past. Students focused on things done to them or done by them in response to situations. This short form is a great form to replicate with younger or old. I found students that normally don't like to write, loved this poem as a way to express themselves in a different way. I found some of these poems, funny, endearing, and refreshing.

Untitled
Detric S.
(3rd Grade, Tomlinson)

I have eaten
all
the grapes
that were
in the grape bag.

and which you
were probably
saving for dinner.

Forgive me. They
were good
so sweet
and
so juicy.

Untitled
Edward C.
(3rd Grade, Tomlinson)

I have eaten
my sister donuts
and eaten my
Mom's nachos

and I have eaten
my Dad's pizza
and his root
beer pop

and do not
even leave a
root beer pop
on the table

and I told my sister
my Mom
and my Dad
that
it will not happen again

but do not
leave an
root beer pop
on the
table

Untitled
Ernest H.
(3rd Grade, Tomlinson)

I'm sorry
for
hitting you
it was
coming
as you
said
"sorry"

I tried
to stop but
I couldn't

a tear
fell from your
eye

I'm sorry
little brother
please
forgive me.

Untitled
Teressa J.
(8th Grade, Lapota)

She was sad
and angry, but
I spoke
to her.

She then went
off
I knew
it was my
fault cause
I spoke
first, knowing...
she was mad.

Later she came
back and apologized
and I
forgave.

Your Messy Room
Ranice G.
(8th Grade, Lapota)

I have seem
to lost my
white shirt
could you let

me search for
it in your
room please?

I know
your room was
just clean
I am so

sorry
I wish
I can help you
out so
my bad
I apologize

for the mess
I made
I hope this
dollar would help!!!!

This is What I have to Say
Malik K.
(5/6 Grade, Garland)

I have to
say
that I am
deeply sorry
for almost
breaking your
arm.

I am sorry
for
putting you
in the hospital.

I am sorry
for
breaking your
arm and putting
you
in the hospital.

They are making
you eat
choke sandwiches.

I feel
really bad
for you.

So I sent you
some good food.

I have
sent you
some salad with
tea
and tuna
and three apples.

I am
deeply sorry!

I'm Sorry Cynthia
Monae S.
(5/6 Grade, Garland)

I am
sorry
for eating the
last piece
of cheese cake.

I am
sorry
for getting you
up in
the middle of
the night.

I am sorry
for
making you
take me
to the hospital
because of my
asthma.

Forgive me
for everything.

I Apologize
Nicole W.
(5/6 Grade, Garland)

I have drunk
the juices
that were in
the refrigerator.

and which
you were saving
for work.

I apologize
the juices were
delicious
so good
and cold.

Can you forgive
me?
I"m sorry
for what
I did.

Forgive me
Mom.