Poetry Break - Unusual Form (pantoum)

BIBLIOGRAPHY
Sidman, Joyce. 2007. This is Just to Say: Poems of Apology and Forgiveness. Ill. by Pamela Zagarenski. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company. ISBN 9780618616800

INTRODUCTION: This poem is written in the form called pantoum. In this form, the second and fourth lines of each stanza are repeated in the next stanza as the first and third lines. These poems typically rhyme, but (as stated by the fictitious teacher in the book) meaning is more important than rhyming. This poem is more suited to intermediate or even secondary students, but can still be appreciated by younger children who have grasped the idea of a deeper poem that is far from funny and light. This is Just to Say is a book with poems of apology and forgiveness, so this poetry break has two parts, the first using pantoum and the second written in free verse.

Part 1: Apology - from Anthony to his mother
Spelling Bomb
By Joyce Sidman

I can’t believe I lost.
I know I disappointed you.
Do you really think I don’t care?
I know how important it is to win.

I know I disappointed you;
I saw it in your face when I misspelled.
I know how important it is to win;
I studied hours and hours.

I saw it in your face when I misspelled.
I saw you turn away from me.
Even though I study hours and hours,
I never seem to be your champion.

I saw you turn away from me
and in that moment would have given anything
to be your champion.
To see your bright, triumphant pride.

In this moment, I would give anything-
Do you really think I don’t care?-
For your bright triumphant pride,
Which I can’t believe I lost.

By Anthony

Part 2: Response - from Tenzin to Anthony
Some Reasons Why
By Joyce Sidman

Why must we work so hard,
and always be the best?


Parents say:
Hard work builds character.
I say:
Too much hard work means no laughter.

Parents say:
Only the best get ahead.
I say:
Everyone’s good at something.

Parents say:
Daydreaming is just an excuse for laziness.
I say:
They just never learned how to write a poem.

By Tenzin (writing for Anthony’s mother, who said he was being ridiculous)


EXTENSION: Have the students discuss with a partner about a time when they disappointed someone. If more time allows, the students may write their own apology poem and give it to the recipient. Or, have them write their own pantoum poem about any subject they choose.

**Side note - This is Just to Say is a fantastic collection of poetry. The premise of the book is unlike any other, and the poems are each packed with meaning. Many of them touch on issues including the betrayal of a friend, loss of a pet, misbehavior in school, and even one that may be read into as possible suicide or abandonment. There are, however, a few light-hearted poems to lift the mood a bit. Don’t miss out on this book; it is a must-read!