The Plum Review, from Broken Sleep Books. Edited by Aaron Kent. Pub. 2022
A few years ago, I learned of this poem:
This is Just to Say, by William Carlos Williams
I have eaten
the plums
that were in
the icebox
and which
you were probably
saving
for breakfast
Forgive me
they were delicious
so sweet
and so cold
This poem has become a meme of sorts, one that I became aware of through a poet I know in Vancouver. On his Twitter feed, he often writes homages/parodies of this poem, and makes and finds other cultural references and uses to it. Turns out, he’s not alone in the poetry world in his love, admiration, and co-option of this poem. Et voila, a collection of various responses and reinterpretations of the poem has been produced. It is remarkable to see the diversity and creativity of these poets with what is actually such a simple theme (sorry I ate your fruit). As with any collection, not all of them are home runs, but many are delightful takes on the theme.
My favourite parody of the poem is this darkly funny short film (worth the 7 minute watch).
Fate: this little book will be a keepsake of a favourite poem.
4 – a book published in 2021/2022
22 – a book of poetry
24 – a book about food (or at least inspired by it)
rclr 