I have used this prompt with various populations: inmates in a women’s prison, veterans, grief groups, new and experienced writers. It is one of my favorites, and never fails to generate strong writing from the participants. Read “Where I’m From,” by George Ella Lyon, and begin your writing with the words “I am from….”
Because I have written to this prompt numerous times, this session I offered two alternatives. The first: fill in the blanks on a worksheet based on the poem. (I will post the second alternative in a separate post.) You can download a similar worksheet here.
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I am from a basement Ping-Pong table,
a boarded-up fireplace
and a bedroom shared with my brother.
I am from a deep front porch, red bricks
surrounding all who shelter there.
I am from the magnolia tree, flowers
fading as soon as they bloom, and the neighbors’
window I can see into at night.
I am from peanut-butter-and-butter sandwiches
and dishes done by hand, from
Jesus loves me, this I know,
and the adventures of Stuart Little.
I’m from Stop crying or I’ll give you something
to cry about, and Say God is love
when you skin your knee.
From You’re not the boss of me and
Do you want to learn through your ears or your butt?
I’m from the Little House books
and riding a bike no-handed.
I’m from the cinder-paved playground
my sister’s silly songs
and never enough time to read.
From decorating the Christmas tree
and macaroni and cheese for every birthday.
I am from Bob and Linda, Mom and Dad, Bryan and Susie,
stories spun from the moments I remember–
whether they happened or not.