I wrote some found poems to submit for an anthology a couple of months ago, but the way I do found poems is a little different–I like to find an article or song or whatever and use it kind of like a word bank to create a poem out of. I don’t usually try to find words right in a row that I think unintentionally make a poem if viewed with a more poetic eye. So my approach probably didn’t work for this anthology (though I’m keeping my fingers crossed on a second batch I tried to find!). But I definitely had fun with the first batch, too, so I’ll share a few here on Poetry Fridays.
Today’s found poem is called "How to Talk to a Girl," and the source material is an online tutorial on how to build your first robot. I was aiming for upper elementary boys with this one.
How to Talk to a Girl
Tutorial – “How to Build Your First Robot”
Society of Robots
They look complicated.
They have interesting curved paths and varying speeds.
They should come with a manual.
They don’t.
So take my advice.
DO NOT get creative—
You’re only asking
for trouble.
The terminology is basic.
Approach.
Talk about something small and cute.
Eating slugs won’t help you get the ladies.
(Trust me.)
You don’t have time to waste on mistakes.
Is there a kitten around?
That will be fine.
It may be unoriginal, but hey,
it’s your first try.
Just wing it.
Don’t quit halfway.
Remember the first time
is always hardest.
–Laura Purdie Salas, all rights reserved
Karen Edmisten is hosting Poetry Friday today, so mosey on over and see what great poems you can find!