Finn Whitman, Class of 2025

An 8th Grader’s Slam Poem

All I am now is frustrated

As my teachers lean over me

Telling me to do better, be smarter.

I’m Irked

As I write a slam poem that will never be read

That is boring like watching paint dry

I’m Resentful

When My teachers tell me 

“Show your work” and “Add more dialogue”

After I’ve worked for hours on a project 

that is dull as ditchwater.

I’m discouraged 

When my coach tells me

“Hit it harder,” and “more curve,” and “Kick it further”

After I’ve curved a perfect shot into the top corner

I’m defeated 

As everyone tells me 

I’m not good enough.

“Finn, you can do better,” and “Finn, try harder,”

Why do we all have to be frustrated?

Frustrated at our schools,

Frustrated at our coaches

Frustrated at our friends and our family

Frustrated at everyone

Why?

Why can’t we have assignments 

that don’t make us frustrated like a dog that can’t reach his treat.

How come we can’t have an Assignment that doesn’t confuse us like a dizzy cat, wandering in circles?

Why do we need to be frustrated with everyone?