HBD, Katie Metts

I’m teaching a poetry writing class this semester, and I try to complete the exercises I set for students. Technically, this is (imperfect) trochaic tetrameter. And here’s the prompt:

Prompt: Write a poem that captures the energy and excitement of a festival or celebration. Use trochaic tetrameter to create a lively and upbeat rhythm.
Suggestion: Start each line with a stressed syllable followed by an unstressed syllable, aiming for a total of eight syllables per line. For example: Dancing lights and music playing,

Of the eight prompts available, I chose this one because I have something to celebrate, the birthday of the lovely Katie Metts.

Here is the poem:

HBD, 1/29/51

Birthday memories are not lasting.
Time can erase our celebration
but your steady love will linger,
precious, priceless, in its station.

This is what I will remember:
care-filled acts throughout my days,
often bending grace toward me,
fragrance of the God we praise.

Let my grateful heart esteem you,
my companion, faithful friend;
first among mortal companions—
covenant wife until life ends.