This Is Just To Say

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


The poem above leaves me cold. To parody it was delicious and sweet. Some things are better appreciated in reflected light.


This Is Just to Say - I

William Carlos Williams
My poems
Are mere
imitations

Of the real which
readers were probably
savoring
last few seconds

Forgive me
and now listen to mine
so neat
and so bold


This Is Just to Say - II

I have drunk
the coffee
that was warming in
the pot

and which
you were probably
brewing
for yourself

Forgive me
I was drowsy
so tired
and the aroma so inviting


This Is Just to Say - III

I have run off
with that woman
that was in
my dreams

and so
you won't be
expecting
me for breakfast

Forgive me
It wasn't you dear
her lips are sweet
and alluring


This Is Just to Say - IV

We've gone and
wrecked this world
that was to be
your legacy

and which
you probably
wanted
to destroy yourself

Forgive us
we didn't wait
for you
and did it ourselves

My Ph.D. thesis

Why does this ring a bell?