Student Poem of the Month — April 2007
 

 
I Am from Everything that Means Anything
© by Rachel McSwain

I am from Egyptian cotton, from Dove soap and Cinnamon Toast Crunch.
I am from a bluebird's nest. From pigtails and Barbie dolls.

I am from a springtime rainbow,
From the spot where all 7 colors meet and blend into something that has no name.

I am from homemade Christmas ornaments and icicles.
From the first dot of ink on paper. I am from any memory that means anything.

I am from the uncontrollable and irreplaceable.

From swing sets and shady creeks. From red clay and rain puddles.
I am from home grown peaches and secret places.
From the last seconds before sleep bewitches consciousness and dreams begin.
Then, I am from your dreams.

I am from sea salt, from pink valentines, and heat lightning at midnight in the summer.

I am from black and white photos, from loud laughter and glittering eyes.
I am from everything everyone wants to be.

From the mysterious.

Previously published in the North Carolina Poetry Society's
Pinesong: Awards 2006. Used with permission of the Poet.
NOTICE: The copyright © for this poem belongs to the Poet.