I’m from the city of ‘good neighbors’,
Where snow falls six feet deep, covering the streets in a tranquil white.
I reside in a place adorned with pinecones, evergreens, and maple trees,
Where flavors dance on the tongue, and memories are made.
From the heavenly delights of La Nova Pizzeria, Frank’s Red Hot Wings, Louie Hot Dogs,
To the refreshing sip of Loganberry drink and the savory bite of Italian sausage with peppers,
Polish sausage links, Perry’s ice cream, Bison dip, and the goodness of Upstate Farms.
The Peace Bridge stands tall and is a mere five-minute drive to the majestic Niagara Falls,
Leading the way to Canada’s embrace.
I am a proud supporter of the Bills, Bisons, and Sabres,
In this haven of unity and strength, a city that stands as one.
My childhood was steeped in love,
A family rooted in the traditions and warmth of the South.
I descend from a lineage of landowners and freedom fighters,
My mother once had the privilege of shaking Dr. King’s hand.
We embarked on a journey, seeking new horizons,
Migrating to a steel mill town, where dreams found their home.
This is where I’m from, a place that shaped me,
But the mystery of my true origin remains untold.
7 thoughts on “Where I’m From (Crystal)”
I love the specificities of Buffalo you include here. Gives a good sense (and good sensory sense) of the place and the memories tied to it. And I like how you segue from the look and tastes of the place to more general info before focusing more on the personal. And then the ending! Quite a twist after the setup and a great bookend to the opening.
Thank you, Erica! I read my poem to my mother and she was astonished about my view of Western New York. This activity was so fun. I will definitely use it with my students!
The audio version of my poem is attached as an Mp4 file.
Beautifully told! There’s so much delicious repetition here – hot wings and hot dogs, Bison dip and Bisons, Italian sausage and Polish sausage (I’m hungry now) – but you also show us in the latter half the hard-earned path to this loving dream of a home.
Thank you, Katherine. Sorry I made you hungry!!!
“But the mystery of my true origin remains untold.”
I love this ending and hearing you read your poem
Thank you, Julie!!!