29 How to Write an I Am Poem

Written By Amy Beasley
“The art of art, the glory of expression and the sunshine of the light of letters, is simplicity.”
— Walt Whitman

Let’s begin:

The I am poem can be written in any style and any format. The first to write, wrote it as a sonnet, and then had another, longer version which was the most popular version.

Pick your Subject

So, you might think that the subject is the obvious choice. An “I Am” poem should be about the one creating the poem. However, many people use the idea and structure of this type to explore perspective - to cultivate empathy. If you have read some of my previous blogs, you might have noticed that I use this a lot. I am a rock; I am Mandela. As a high school English teacher, I often assign the “I Am” poem to students. I give this a graphic organizer and ask them to write as if they were a specific character.

Click here to view that organizer.

Put pen to paper:

After selecting your topic. Let your words fly. Keep them praising. Keep them lofty. Open your heart to your purpose and let all of the good thoughts fill and overflow. And write. Write write. Let the words fly.

Revise and rewrite:

After exhausting your flow of ideas. Review your work. Revise if you feel you need to change. Rewrite if you notice a hinge.

Edit:

After reviewing for needed changes, it always go to go over your work again. Correct any details in spelling and grammar that stand out to you.

Celebrate:

Reread your poem again and enjoy it! Taking the time to celebrate the work of your hands and heart is important.

Share:

Also, please share your I AM poem in the comments below. I would love to read it!

My I Am Poem : I Am Nothing 

Today - I am Nothing
I am the long exhale 
I listen
And I hear Everything - in the silence
 
I want -  for nothing

I am placid
Free - and exactly where I need-to-be
I touch the fabric of emptiness
Clothed in majesty, I feel--grace
I am comfortable - content - grounded
Clear of worry - doubt - fear --
I have let - Everything -- go

I am full ---
of nothingness
--- the life force of a flower
-at dawn

Questions

  • How many lines are in this poem?

  • Do you see any repeating words or phrase?

  • What imagery stands out to you?

  • Does the writer employ figurative language? If so, explain.

  • What is your interpretation of this poem?

  • How do the words make you feel?

  • Does this work inspire you in any way?

Amy Beasley
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