Examples of Poetry By Mark Hamm
Riding to Work on an April Morning
by Mark Hamm
Inspired by my experiences using British public transit to get to work. It contrasts my observations of the British countryside with the overwhelming hustle and bustle of modern life. It is one of my few poems that rhymes and is set in quatrains.
"The train flies by the rolling fields of green, Old hedges line up neatly in their rows. The clicky-clack of steel on track still grows, Old footpaths lead to places yet unseen.
The sun peeps through the blooming charcoal clouds A honey-colored glow slips through, rain-kissed. Some clouds light up, I hear no sounds. Beyond blue bells—thunder, hail, and mist. "
Class of 2013 Graduation
by Mark Hamm
This is an example of my blank verse in free form, in which I drew on my experiences from teaching in the Phoenix public school system to demonstrate how my students challenged me to move beyond negative, preconceived perspectives in verse.
"A flash, a mob, the highlight of the year.
Tassels to the left, hats tossed in the air,
The stadium filled with rhythm, song, and dance.
We shuffled, clapped in one harmonious flow.
“I've Got a Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas
Booms and echoes off the concrete walls.
The tapestry of black gold unfurled
With laughter, tears, and cheers, a flood of joy.
We made the local news, we birthed a trend.
Our school was known for dropouts, drugs, and dope,
The YouTube fights, and Freshman Friday hell. "
Tuscon
by Mark Hamm
An ode to my beloved hometown, this is a wistful look at the beautiful desert landscape and mystique of Tucson, Arizona. I utilise some of my more imaginative experimentation with the English language in this poem.
"The cottonwood trees tremble by the creek
That hums inside Sabino Canyon's walls.
The Catalinas' secrets are their own,
And though I'm far away from there, that earth–
It is my bones, its waters are my blood."
I Also Write in Other Genres
While Mark Hamm Writing is rooted in poetry, I also explore literary fiction, fantasy inspired by Greek mythology and Western European heritage, and quirky, character-driven short stories. Each genre allows me to experiment with language and immerse you in richly developed worlds. Whether you come for Mark Hamm poetry or for my stories, you'll find a unique perspective running through every piece.