Write a poem about this image.

From a tadpole and egg Comes a beautiful mix Creating an embryo Attached you develop Your organs and systems Develop, new life being formed Your brain, then eyes, limbs Like a tree growing underground You grow within, a mothers body What do you hear? Hopefully love What do you feel? Hopefully safety As you continue to grow, fingers, toes So very small, magically, majestically Your feet kick, just to be felt, such wonder Watch you move, butterfly in your cocoon Wondering when will you peek out Thinking of your small body, precious Dreaming of your soft skin, smells What a wonder What a gift Holding you I realize your beginning My little wondrous child CDK 5-9-26

Every poet begins somewhere. Often it starts with reading the work of another poet whose words feel powerful, honest, or unforgettable. Sometimes a single poem can open the door to writing. Sometimes it’s a writer whose voice feels familiar, as if they understand something we have felt but never fully expressed. Discovering Influences The poets who influence us can come from anywhere. They may be well-known literary voices, or they may be writers we discover online, in communities, or in small collections of poetry. What matters is the connection we feel when reading their work. When we read poetry that resonates deeply, it often inspires us to explore our own voice. Learning From Other Poets Reading poetry can teach us many things. It can show us: • Different writing styles • New ways to use imagery • Unique perspectives on emotion • How simple language can create powerful meaning Every poet we read adds something to our understanding of the craft. Finding Your Own Voice While inspiration from other poets is valuable, every writer eventually discovers their own voice. Influence is a starting point. But your experiences, your perspective, and your emotions shape the poetry that only you can write. And that voice is what makes your poetry unique. A Question for the Table Which poets have influenced your writing the most? What was it about their work that inspired you? Sharing influences often leads to discovering new voices a nd new perspectives within the community.

Torn between right and wrong Lost notes, rest, bars, of a song, A lifeless shell, crab moved out Is this what life is all about? Feelings jumbled like toss salad Reality plays low a lovely ballad Can I possibly make sense at all Probably not, hang up don’t call. Clear head, clear thoughts, I pray Intently listening for what you say Point me in the direction meant Give me a sign, it was God sent CDK 5-5-2026

Let me know your thoughts how it makes you feel