Napowrimo 2024.. Day 12
And last but not least, our optional prompt. Today, we’d like to challenge you to write a poem that plays with the idea of a “tall tale.” American tall tales feature larger-than-life characters like Paul Bunyan (who is literally larger than life), Bulltop Stormalong (also gigantic), and Pecos Bill (apparently normal-sized, but he doesn’t let it slow him down). If you’d like to see a modern poetic take on the tall tale, try Jennifer L. Knox’s hilarious poem, “Burt Reynolds FAQ.” Your poem can revolve around a mythical character, one you make up entirely, or add fantastical elements into a real person’s biography.
A Little Tall Tale
Over the hill and far away,
Lived mighty little lady.
She was the size of toddler,
Some might say a baby.
She had the strength of a hundred giants,
Still, she was fully grown.
But she had no one who loved her,
In fact, she felt very much alone.
The townspeople would laugh and snigger,
At her little size.
They thought she was weak and weird,
They enjoyed spreading lies.
Then, one day, a uniquely pretty woman arrived,
With beautiful long brown hair.
The townspeople greeted her in awe,
All were welcoming of her.
Crossing paths with the little lady,
The beautiful woman declared.
You are the most amazingly perfect person,
A shared moment was observed.
The little lady exclaimed my name is “Kim”
The beautiful woman replied, “So joyous to meet you, I am Sam.”
A love story would begin.
The two shared stories and tales,
Spending the night together.
So comfortable in each others company,
They decided this is forever.
Into town the next day,
The townspeople were nasty and amazed.
Kim thought it might scare her new love away,
But Sam was not fazed.
Suddenly and shockingly, the ground began to shake,
As in stomped a repulsive giant,
Looking for his lunch.
The townspeople screamed and ran,
Who would save the day?
Kim ran forward, grabbing a large rock,
Throwing it at the giant straight away.
The giant stumbled,
Watching on as more and more rocks were thrown.
Turning to run away,
As another rock hit his shoulder bone.
The townspeople reamerged,
Screamed out the loudest cheers.
Kim was now their champion,
She would vanquish their fears.
Sam watched on with awe and pride,
Their days would be better here after.
The townspeople hadn’t seen the true Kim.
Finally they could live their happily ever after.
By Katie Haigh
©️K.Haigh 12th April 2024
Katie’s Words in Dark Corners 