Reader’s Apology

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Reader’s Apology

What? Were you talking to me?
I’m sorry I didn’t hear.
I hope you will understand.

Even though you can see me,
I’m not actually here.
I’ve been sucked into my book.

 

This month Michelle Barnes shines her spotlight on Jane Yolan. To celebrate her book The Alligator’s Smile and Other Poems, Jane has challenged readers to write septercets, a form she invented. Septercets are composed of stanzas of three lines; each line has seven syllables. The poems can have any number of stanzas and may be rhymed or unrhymed. I found them interesting to write. Every form has its own characteristics and part of using a new one is discovering its secrets. Apparently I was not alone in finding the septercet appealing because Michelle’s September padlet is booming.

Next week I’ll be at Poetry Camp at Western Washington University with many other Poetry Friday poets. I can’t wait to meet everyone in person. I’m pretty sure we’ll be breaking the world record for most children’s poets in one place.

Happy Poetry Friday!

Liz

26 replies
  1. Janet F.
    Janet F. says:

    I am beyond sad I can’t be there. Live stream 24/7 maybe? Love your poem. Sooooooo true! My goal was always for all kids to experience this!!!

    Reply
  2. Michelle Heidenrich Barnes
    Michelle Heidenrich Barnes says:

    The padlet IS booming, Liz, but I’m so glad you joined in! I always look forward to your poems. 🙂 Something tells me (could be the stack of FIVE books), that an apology isn’t really coming anytime soon… but who can complain about that?!!

    Reply
  3. lindabaie
    lindabaie says:

    Exactly right, Liz. And, wow, so many of you are going to Poetry Camp. I had a great time last week at Highlights, and now this time in Washington sounds quite marvelous. Happy Travels and time with all those great people!

    Reply
    • Liz Steinglass
      Liz Steinglass says:

      I’m afraid this will be me when your workshop is over. Everyone will be packing up and I’ll be working away without even hearing!

      Reply
    • Liz Steinglass
      Liz Steinglass says:

      Ooooh! Very clever. I suppose they deny it all when they check back in. That’s what my big son would do. Deny all knowledge of any prior conversation.

      Reply

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