What is a list poem? This poetry style collects a list of people, places, things, ideas, or even words strung together somewhere within a poem to form a list. It is not necessary for the list to rhythm, but the words used should be memorable. I find the freedom when creating a list poem fascinating. The wordplay can be wild and free similar to Indiana weather in the early spring. Therefore, in March, I plan to write a series of list poems. I will title this one Spring Yard clean Up.
Spring Yard Clean Up
Take a walk to assess the damage
Of winter’s last ferocious rampage
Make note of the torn canvas on the awning
The snow slid off the roof one bright morning
Remove the rubble the wind blew about
The yard is a mess without any doubt
Sweep off the clutter on the patio
Pant flower seeds when it is time to sow
Wash off the chairs and the black metal table
Locate the solar lighting features when you are able
Clean out the remnants of the last fire in the burn barrel
Open up the umbrella, the perfect table apparel
Arrange all the decorations carefully in the yard
Ray the Rooster will be the perfect sentinel to stand guard
Over our summer fun and holiday festivities
This is the beginning of our backyard proclivities
Molly Shea is an accomplished fictional short story writer from Indiana who writes short stories and novels about a fictional town called Tecumseh. To read more of her short stories and adventures, click here.
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That was great, Molly. A list, but so smoothly done, it didn’t seem like a list. The imagery was wonderful and the walk through the yard so relatable. Well done.