The poet William Carlos Williams was known for a writing style that focused on imagery and rich description. His famous poem “This is Just to Say” found its way into many high school and college English classes (including mine):

This is Just to Say

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

It has inspired several parodies because it is just so funny. In the spirit of those alternate poems, I would like to offer a few of my own versions of “This is Just to Say”.

This is Just to Say

I have taken
the window seat
on the fifteen hour flight

which the plane ticket
said was yours and I know
you like the view

Forgive me
your were in
the bathroom
and I hate
waiting

This is Just to Say

I made paella for
dinner early today
to surprise you
after work

because I know you
like paella
so much

Forgive me
I like paella too
it was so delicious
I may have eaten
the whole thing

This is Just to Say

I went to Starbucks
this morning
took the girls so
you could sleep

we were up late
last night and
I know that mor-
nings are tough
without coffee

Forgive me
I realized that Grande
Nonfat Hazelnut
lattes are better than
what I usually get
I drank it all

This is Just to Say

I showed up in your
classroom today
I always wanted to be

a guest speaker even
though I don’t know what
I would tell your students
I just like their energy

Forgive me
it was hilarious
we told jokes and
I taught them some
computer language
I don’t actually know

This is Just to Say

I watched The Bachelor
last night
all fifteen episodes

I know that you like
to be surprised at
the ending

Forgive me
for spoiling it
The girl ended up
running off with the host
It was scandalous

This is Just to Say

We are getting married
in nineteen days
in Santa Barbara

Even after you
put up with
my bad singing
and had to
ask me out twice

I can’t wait
to have more
adventures with
you and keep
building our
life together

  top