And the Ghosts

by Graham Foust

A simple, one line poem that deserves unpacking: "They own everything."

Unknown Binding

Reviews

[Rachel Self]

This is an interesting poem that might arrest a class of middle schoolers for one reason: it is a singular line, “they own everything.” After the initial shock of a one sentence poem, I would love to break it down with my class in terms of meaning for a Man vs. Society conflict focus. We could discuss how what our ancestors did and said trails us to this day in terms of behaviors and attitudes, both historically and pop culturally. I think it would be interesting to lead into discussion with Beers’s It Says I Say, despite its usual context for a longer story. I would pose a question about what kinds of ghosts have an affect on my students lives. Students would address how the poem says they own everything, then could discuss everything from ancestors creating traditions to a departed grandmother’s love for them. I want students to see how the poem impacts in smaller ways and is relevant before bringing it to a larger stage.

[Robert Wang · Rating 5 out of 5]

This has many deep connotations that is perfect for the ambiguous "They own everything"

[Jesus]

Very interesting. Will use as my wedding vows. Cried. Died. Watched Yo Gabba Gabba afterwardz. Great show would recommend
-Jesus Christ