Write from Art

Corridor in the Asylum

by Vincent van Gogh

Students - Today's poem is, once again, an ekphrastic poem...a poem about art. Over the past two weeks, I have so enjoyed writing with students at Alden Intermediate School in Alden, NY. One of the pieces I selected when writing with fourth graders was this van Gogh hallway above. It clearly made me think about choices and how one choices leads to another and another.

Art is a magnificent doorway to writing, and so many things count as art. Look around. Maybe you see wallpaper with an interesting design or a mug with a drawing on it. Perhaps the fiery tree outside your window looks like a statue or your new kitten (you know if I am talking to you!) reminds you of a painting.

We can always have many poems brewing in our minds. I am working on another one inspired by a word J. shared this week - "bright."

Writing this poem, I most enjoyed the rolling repetition of the words doors, doorway, doorknob. I kept reading aloud as I wrote and do highly recommend this.

Update on November 3, 2024 - My musician and English professor friend Gart Westerhout has turned this poem into a song. Below you can hear his composition with him singing and playing piano. So now we see a painting turned into a poem turned into a song!

Thank you again to everyone at Alden Intermediate for my warm and welcoming days with you. I very much enjoyed reading your words.

Bridget is hosting this week's Poetry Friday roundup today at wee words for wee ones a happy birthday celebration! Each Friday, all are invited to share poems, poem books, poetry ideas, and friendship in this open and welcoming poetry community.

Wishing you interesting hallways and doorways...

xo,

Amy

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