Our week at a glance:

• Monday (D Day)- go over examples of blues poetry
• Tuesday (A Day)- No class
• Wednesday (B Day)- Writing Day
• Thursday (C Day)- Workshop Day (blues poems due!!)

Also, Back to School night is this Thursday at 6pm. I look forward to meeting your parents and guardians!!

Some of you questioned whether or not I was a poet today in class. I think everyone has the potential to be a poet. I've slacked in performing poetry over the past year, but here's a photo from an Open Mic in Highland Park.

Here's a poem I wrote in response to a poem by Mark Doty that we'll look at later on in the semester. 

Have a great weekend!!
-Ms. Barbour

“What Could We Do”

“…what could he do,
what could any of us ever do
but ask for it?”

It is incredibly moving
to realize the power
of words left unspoken.

When words are left unsaid–
or, perhaps,
unsaid to their subject–

what power is stripped away
from both the speaker
and the current topic?

To think the subject is unaware
of the mere commonality
of being a conversation piece

is, plainly put, stupid,
but they continue to beat on
against the rhythm of their own stupidity.

When callous words are spoken–
perhaps out of fear, or misunderstanding–
the power of the words are stripped.

Inquire, desire, dive into the truth,
whether it be through a questioning
or through small talk,

and fulfill your needs
to know the truth
without being cruel,

for the cruelest of moments
happen
in the most innocent passings.

Speak your truth.
Defy the heartless.
Rise above the rest,

and stay at ease with an open heart.
What can any of us ever do
but ask for that?

It was really great meeting all of you on Friday! I'm looking forward to seeing you again tomorrow! :)

One thing you should remember:

• The last page of your Policies & Procedures should be signed and returned by both you and a parent or guardian for Thursday, September 11th. This is worth a quiz grade.
• Your summer reading assessment will be TOMORROW. You MAY use your notes.

As evidenced by the above haiku, I'm looking forward to a great year with all of you!