AM LIT: Talk about a time when you had to write a poem, whether it was for an assignment, event, or special occasion. What was the writing process like for you, and were you proud of the finished product?

Reading it aloud at the gathering was nerve-wracking, but seeing my friend’s eyes well up (and hearing a few chuckles at the inside jokes) made all the wrestling with words completely worth it. It taught me that poetry isn't about using the biggest or most sophisticated words; it’s just about capturing a genuine human emotion and holding it still for a moment.

Summary: The story tracks the creation of a free-verse farewell poem written for a relocating friend. It shows the shift from a forced rhyming structure to an honest, memory-driven piece. The final reading successfully connected with the audience by prioritizing genuine emotion over perfection.

Reflection: This process proves that authenticity matters more than rigid rules in creative writing. Letting go of a strict poetic structure allowed for a much deeper, more relatable human connection. Ultimately, the piece succeeded because it focused on making someone feel truly seen and valued.