Poems from the Pandemic

Inspired by Amanda Gorman’s reading of her poem “The Hill We Climb” at President Biden’s inauguration, David Nelson’s 6th-grade class at Vieja Valley Elementary School in Santa Barbara began to write their own poems. They first analyzed Gorman’s poems for the many poetry elements she used and then brainstormed ideas, talking about their struggles and sadness over being separated from their friends during the Year of COVID. In so doing, said Nelson, it became a shared experience: “Poetry is a powerful tool that brought us all together,” he said. “We hope these poems give you reason to hope and smile.” The Art of Living by Cameron DePaco
The Soccer Player by Cecilio Carachure
Miss Corona by Phoebe Caldwell
Internet and Covid-19 by David Duarte
The Golden Morning by Kalae Anderson

The Art of Living by Cameron DePaco

We are committed to a life of happiness
Not a life of division
A life that brings purpose to our country, our people, and our world
A life that will never be broken by those who do not stand with us