Three Poems from “Life through the Negatives”

Abstract

Written in the Spring 2024 Pidgin Creative Writing Workshop (ENG 317), poetry selections, “Nana’s Garden,” “Pōhinahina”, and prose piece, “An Ode to Point and Shoots” are written to emphasize Hawai’i centered place based writing. “Nana’s Garden” reflects the bond shared between the narrator and their Nana’s beloved garden, and a wish for their relationship and the garden to continue flourishing. Tracing its presence throughout milestones like graduation, the first day of school, and childhood experiences, “Pōhinahina” captures the flower as a constant companion in the author’s life celebrations and transitions. “An Ode to Point and Shoots” celebrates the art of point-and-shoot cameras, and the anticipation and patience required to preserve memories from everyday scenes to life’s milestones, into a tangible form through developed film. These poems explore the power of memory and connection found in everyday experiences.