A Where I'm From poem is a poetic form that can be used to explore a person's history and the environment that has shaped them. It is typically a reflection on where the writer is from, its landscape, its special features and its people. Rather than having a rhythm and meter, this poetic form relies on the inclusion of particular words or images that evoke a setting or a past experience. These words or images spark off memories and give the poem a feeling of origin.
Where I'm From poems often start with a phrase such as "I am from," followed by several lines of vivid, concrete details about the places, people and experiences that have influenced the writer. Each detail should be chosen to capture the strength and uniqueness of the writer's past and of the place he/she is describing. The emphasis should be on the relationships, whether it's the bond between siblings, parents, or a connection to a specific event. A Where I'm From poem should ultimately be an exercise in self-discovery and reflection. Rather than setting off to a new location, the focus is on looking back and recognizing the power of the place and the people that have shaped the writer's identity.
