"This is Just to Say" is a poem by William Carlos Williams that has become one of his most famous and widely anthologized works. The poem is a brief and casual apology, written in the form of a note left on the refrigerator for someone else to find.
The poem is written in free verse, with no strict rhyme or meter. Its structure is simple and straightforward, consisting of two short stanzas with three lines each. The first stanza begins with the phrase "I have eaten," and the second stanza begins with "Forgive me." The entire poem is only twenty-four words long, and it takes up less than one page in most anthologies.
Despite its brevity and simplicity, "This is Just to Say" has a powerful emotional impact. The speaker in the poem is clearly sorry for having eaten the plums that someone else had intended to eat. The speaker's apology is sincere and contrite, and it is clear that the speaker knows they have done something wrong.
One of the things that makes "This is Just to Say" such a memorable and effective poem is the way it captures the ordinary, everyday moments of life. The poem is written in the style of a casual note or message, and it deals with a subject that is both familiar and universal. Everyone has, at some point in their life, eaten something that they weren't supposed to eat. By focusing on this small and seemingly insignificant moment, Williams is able to capture the larger truths about human nature and the complexities of relationships.
Another aspect of "This is Just to Say" that contributes to its effectiveness is the way it uses language. The poem is written in simple, straightforward language, with no flowery or elaborate vocabulary. This choice of language helps to create an intimacy and authenticity that is at the heart of the poem. It is as if the speaker is talking directly to the reader, confessing their wrongdoing and asking for forgiveness.
In conclusion, "This is Just to Say" is a powerful and memorable poem that captures the ordinary moments of life in a way that is both familiar and universal. Its simplicity and straightforward language give it an intimacy and authenticity that is rare in poetry, and its emotional impact is undeniable. It is a poem that continues to resonate with readers today, and it is a testament to Williams's skill as a poet.