This Is Just to Say

Note: "This Is Just to Say" is a short poem by William Carlos Williams. I heard on the radio the other day that it's a favorite for poets to emulate, because of it's non-apology apology nature and refrigerator-note simplicity, and thought I'd give it a try. The original is first, then my variations. Enjoy.

This Is Just to Say

I have eaten
the plums
that were in
the icebox

and which
you were probably
saving
for breakfast

Forgive me
they were delicious
so sweet
and so cold

William Carlos Williams, 1934

*~*~*~*~*

This Is Just to Say

I have taken
one kidney
that was in
your side

and which
you weren't really
using
too much

Forgive me
go to the ER
from that tub
of ice

This Is Just to Say

I have drunk
all the milk
that was in
the carton

and which
you were probably
saving
for cookies

Forgive me
it was refreshing
so creamy
and so cold

This Is Just to Say

I have sent
your son
whom you love
to war

and know
you were probably
hoping
for grandchildren

Forgive me
he was courageous
so strong
and so young

—The President

This Is Just to Say

I made soap
from your mother's fat
that was in
the icebox

and which
you were probably
saving
for collagen injections

Forgive me
it was lustrous
so rich
and so creamy

—Tyler

*~*~*~*~*

Copyright 2009 Parker Allen Stacy, IV. All Rights Reserved.