Introduction

This poem is a reminder that our imaginations can inspire many thoughts from sincerely realistic to the extremely bizarre! Before reading this poem, have children share some of their imaginary thoughts.

BY MYSELF

N When I'm by myself

N And I close my eyes

1 I'm a twin

2 I'm a dimple in a chin

3 I'm a room full of toys

4 I'm a squeaky noise

5 I'm a gospel song

6 I'm a gong

7 I'm a leaf turning red

8 I'm a loaf of brown bread

9 I'm whatever I want to be

10 And anything I care to be

N And when I open my eyes

N What I care to be

N Is me

                                        Eloise Greenfield

Extension

Allow the class to create a poem similar to By Myself. Provide children with large banner type paper. Have them agree on a subject for their poem ( ex. summer vacation or what I want to be when I grow up). Encourage each child to contribute a line to the poem. In addition, have each child create small illustrations.