I am from life - The Chicago Poetry Center

I am from life

We are all composed of the many places, people, things, and experiences that make us who we are. Which is why I love the George Ella Lyons poem “Where I’m From” and subsequent variations of it. For our 6th session with waters 6th graders, we did an activity I call “Paint Chips of my Life” (thank you, Sarah Kokernot for the lesson inspo!). After passing around paint chips for reference, students came up with paint chips that represent colors in their life. Then, we looked at “I Am From,” a poem written by then-high schooler Rockelle Rodd and published by 826NYC. Students finished by writing their own “I Am From” poems. Take a look and enjoy:

Ms. Hooper Class

Where I'm From Ollie B.

I am from a family of Swifties
I am from the constant sound of basketball
I am from pool tables and darts
the rare days when my Mom makes beef and gravy
The slight smell of sawdust at Dad’s house
I am from a big family

My life -_- Lola M.

I am from rat land
My parents always say “clean your room.
rats are going to start living in there”
then my sister walked by and said “a rat
is already living in there.” me. that’s ok
because I am a beautiful rat.

Soy De... Paulimar M.

una mañana me despierto
escuchando al tren mientras
mi mamá un rico pastelito me esta
preparando miro a la ventana y
beo a mis amigos jugando mi juego
favorito voleibol la vecina me pregunta
“y tu mami?” yo le respondo “en casa” y ella grita
doña donmarys y es todo y tomamos cafecito caliente

My Home Cy C.

I am from my home
on my couch
I am from my home
with my parents by my side
I am from my home
with good food
I like being in my home
with the smell of food
with my parents
I like being at my home

Ms. Collins Class

I Am From Xoelli C.

I am from Illinois but I’m Mexican & Nicaraguan. I love playing
roblox. I bake with my mom often. I am funny. I am an animal lover.
I love running. I love fruits. I am kind. I am caring. I love snacks.
I love my friend.

World Sami C.M.

I am from life
I am from Jeanne and Collette
I am from a loving family
I am from Dti
I like to swim in the ocean of technology
I hear the dogs screaming at their owners feed me
feed me

Soy De... Josue

Soy de futbol
Soy de mi familia
Soy de Fabuloso
Soy de Venezuela
Soy de Luis y Kelis
Soy de epico

I Am From Elsa

I am from Ramen
I am from stir fry
I am from home
I am from fresh paint
I am from purple
I am from cars driving by
I am from Aunt Emily
I am from family reunions
I am from Chicago
I am from family and warmth