pr 9

Katie Bomar
3.28.11
English IV AP
Jernigan

Poetry Response: “Let Me Count the Waves” by Sandra Beasley

This offbeat poem was very engaging as well as perplexing. I was initially drawn to this poem because of the clever title “Let Me Count the Waves” which echoes the infamous line “Let me count the ways.” This clever title sets the tone for the quick wit that will follow throughout the rest of the poem.

I think the first three lines did a good job of setting the scene for the type of poem this piece will be. Beasley utilizes a single word and explores the varying meanings that word contains. For the example, the first line reads, “You must not skirt the issue while wearing skirts.” This type of phrasing conveys a comical, lighthearted feel. She continues by rambling on, almost in stream of consciousness style, about fantastical, nonsensical events.

Beasley references a giraffe and an elephant in the second stanza. These jungle animals mirror the wild, untamed style Beasley employs to convey her ideas. She also alludes to many well-known, renown authors such as Walt Whitman and Emily Dickinson. I appreciated her unconventional style, relaxed tone, and quick wit. The poem reminded me of that poem we read earlier this year called “Buttons.” This was certainly a little easier to follow, but it contained similar quirky, informal qualities. It was refreshing to read a poem that didn’t feel precise and formal and stuffy, but instead it felt light, humorous, and whimsical.