Student's Work

This poem was written by Phoebe Barrett a Year 8 student in the GATE Poetry Writing module.

 

It was Runner-Up in the Open Poetry Section of the New Zealand Poetry Society International Poetry Competition 2010.

 

Such a Hard Life.....

 

As I waddle, like a walking pin cushion,

I stop and curl up like a spiky chestnut,

I am resting in a damp burrow,

Wriggling and rolling,

Trying to keep myself warm.

 

I decide to move out,

As I take a few steps,

My short, and stubby legs are shaking,

My little paws can't take it anymore,

So I stop.

 

What do you think of me?

I have tiny button eyes,

And a nose as black as coal,

My fuzzy belly is soft,

But not enough to keep me warm.

 

The day goes on, and the night sky comes,

It's time for me to hunt,

I eat crunchy snails and slimy slugs,

I am alert for any movement,

My legs still shaking,

I move back to my burrow.

 

I am curled up like a round burr with spikes,

Hiding in my leafy burrow,

Safe and sound,

Getting ready for a good night's sleep,

I must hibernate.

 

A magical place 

 

Making its way through harsh rocks.

It reaches its destination from which it falls.

Like one piece of glass shattering,

when it hits waters edge.

 

Willow trees flank the banks.

Standing tall like soldiers on guard.

Rough branches and waxy leaves,

over hang the flowing current.

 

Petite fish swim away,

from the pounding rush,

in groups of many.

Scales so bright and shining,

but shy to strangers.

 

Crystal clear waters,

with misty droplets floating through the summer air,

dancing with the sun,

to make breathtaking rainbows.

 

Day soon comes to an end,

and the silver moon illuminates the river.

Blinding with sparkles,

the river flows.

 

Eleanor2

My Life as a ladybug

 

The branches sway gently in the wind,

calmly, peacefully

like no anger is among them.

 

I chose a spot to rest,

calmly, peacefully

hoping no one knows I'm here.

 

I awake feeling pleased,

calmly, peacefully

for having slept without being woken.

 

I hunt for any source of food,

calmly, peacefully

finding a magnificent green leaf.

 

I slowly nibble a hole through it,

calmly, peacefully

I am satisfied, I am full.

 

I move to another spot

calmly, peacefully

I find the perfect spot and I sleep.

 

Emily