Ann Whitford Paul - Too Big For Bear

TOO BIG FOR BEAR

I’m six years old, too big for Bear,

but maybe in my bed tonight . . .

No friends are here to see or care.

I’m six years old, too big for Bear,

but ghosts are creeping everywhere.

If only I could hold him tight.

I’m six years old, too big for Bear,

but maybe in my bed tonight . . .

© Ann Whitford Paul. All rights reserved 

Says Ann "This poem popped into my head because of the times we’re living in. When we’re stuck at home, everyone needs something to comfort them whether 6 or 66 or 106 years young. Yours could be a blanket, a bear, a good book, or a warm bath or a sweet banana. Don’t be embarrassed. Snuggle it, read it, splash in it, eat it. Do what you need to calm and soothe yourself. We may be apart, but we’re all in this together.

The poem is a triolet.

It’s easy because it’s only eight lines and several of the lines are repeated.

The form looks like:

First line

Second line

*Third line rhymes with first line

Fourth line repeats first line

*Fifth line rhymes with first line

*Sixth line rhymes with second line

Seventh line repeats first line

Eighth line repeats second line.

Once you have your first lines, you’re well on your way. I’ve put an* beside each line that isn’t a repeat. The key is to make sure your first two lines are worth of being repeated. I hope maybe you’ll give this form a try. Happy writing!"

Ooooh! A triolet! This is one of my favorite forms, and I'm grateful Ann Whitford Paul has prompted us to write one. I shall!  And I shall also urge you to go check out some of Ann's books - she's a master picture book writer (and if you're looking to write one yourself, she's written an amazing book to help you).