Found Poems from Christina Baum

This submission is in response to the “What You Leave Behind” prompt posted April 13 2025.

Artist’s Statement: I love a good blackout poem because of the quick surprise of what called to me and arises from what was left behind. The poem almost evolves as a “do not touch the hot stove…there is a lesson here”. My approach seems to be scan rapidly and circle phrases or words that propel the thoughts I am reaping. Then I enjoy using colored pencil to “blackout” the text which wasn’t selected. Often I use a free domain classic book and open to a page and let myself go for the quick surprise.

 Turned

I became aware
I remember
for the first time.
 
struggling with 
yesterday
and turned
a shoulder
 
in front of him
unhappily

 A Slight Movement Inside
 
Recreating
a rumor
no one
ever blew breath into
 
was just hugging
wonder
wonder, repeatedly
a slight movement inside. 

Christina Baumis serves on the board of The Poetry Society of South Carolina (PSSC). Ms. Baumis’ works are in Poems on the Comet, The Dead Mule School of Southern Literature, and South 85 Journal among other engaging publications. She was the second place recipient of The North Carolina Poetry Society’s Jean Williams Poetry of Disability, Disease, and Healing Award 2024. With PSSC, Ms. Baumis hosts Poetry Trails- gatherings to share poems on SC trails and parks. She co-initiated and volunteered for Cypress Gardens SC’s annual Poetry Walk event with participants’ poetry displayed around the swamp. Ms. Baumis recently was named the inaugural Poet Laureate of the City of Goose Creek, SC.