April 22, 2015

How Do I Know When A Poem is Finished?

Dear Naomi Shihab Nye,

Hello! My name is Lauren and I live in California. I attend 6th grade and am 11 years old.  I am writing to you about your poem, “How Do I Know When a Poem Is Finished?” I really enjoyed this poem. I can really see the connection of a room with a poem. This poem has many descriptive verbs and adjectives. Personally my favorite part was the last line/stanza. I agree with it, too.

“I think you keep doing this    
 forever. But the blue chair looks best
 with the red pillow. So you might as well

 leave it that way.”

It was a nice ending. I think it means that a poem could go on for a long time, but something would/will be perfect and you would not have to change it. The room is a great example!

I also have some questions:

1. How did you think of a room in comparison to a poem?
2. Were you inspired to be a poet?
3. Do you enjoy your job?

This was a great poem and I really enjoyed reading it! Thank you for your time!

Sincerely,

Lauren
Grade 6
Sacramento, CA


dear poet letters