If you’ve ever stumbled upon the line “I have eaten the plums that were in the icebox” and wondered what it really means—or why it’s so famous—you’re not alone. This deceptively simple phrase comes from one of the most iconic short poems in American literature. Whether you’re a student, a literature lover, or just curious about this quirky confession, you’ll find clarity and insight here. Let’s unpack “I have eaten the plums that were in the icebox”—its origins, interpretations, and lasting cultural impact.
What Is the Poem “This Is Just To Say” About?
Written by William Carlos Williams in 1934, “This Is Just To Say” is a 28-word poem that reads like a casual note left on the kitchen counter:
*I have eaten
the plums
that were in
the icebox
and which
you were probably
saving
for breakfast
Forgive me
they were delicious
so sweet
and so cold*
At first glance, it seems like nothing more than an apology for eating someone else’s fruit. But beneath its plain language lies a masterclass in modernist poetry—a movement that rejected ornate Victorian styles in favor of everyday speech and ordinary moments.
Williams, a physician by profession and poet by passion, believed that poetry should reflect real life. As he famously wrote: “No ideas but in things.” This poem embodies that philosophy perfectly.
💡 Did You Know?
The poem was originally written as a personal note to Williams’ wife, Flossie. He left it on the refrigerator (or “icebox,” as it was called then)—not intending it to become literature!
Why Is “I Have Eaten The Plums That Were In The Icebox” So Famous?
Despite its brevity, this poem has endured for nearly a century. Here’s why:
- Accessibility: No complex metaphors or archaic words—just honest, conversational language.
- Emotional Resonance: It captures universal feelings—guilt, temptation, pleasure, and affection.
- Minimalism: It proves that poetry doesn’t need grand themes to be powerful.
- Cultural Influence: It’s been parodied, referenced in TV shows (The Simpsons, Mad Men), and even turned into memes.
According to a 2023 survey by the Poetry Foundation, “This Is Just To Say” ranks among the top 5 most taught poems in U.S. high schools, thanks to its approachability and rich interpretive potential.
Literary Devices in the Poem: Simplicity with Depth
Though short, the poem uses subtle techniques to create meaning:
| Device | Example | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Enjambment | Lines break mid-thought (“the plums / that were in / the icebox”) | Mimics natural speech; builds suspense |
| Sensory Imagery | “so sweet / and so cold” | Evokes taste and temperature—makes the plums feel real |
| Tone Shift | Starts apologetic → ends indulgent | Reveals human contradiction: regret vs. delight |
| Domestic Setting | Icebox, breakfast, plums | Grounds poetry in everyday life |
Unlike traditional poetry that might use rhyme or meter, Williams relies on rhythm of thought—how a real person would speak or write a note.
For deeper context on modernist poetry and Williams’ role, see his Wikipedia page.
Common Interpretations: More Than Just a Snack Confession
Scholars and readers have offered several readings of the poem:
1. A Literal Apology
Some take it at face value: a husband admits to eating his wife’s plums. The sincerity makes it charming.
2. A Metaphor for Desire or Transgression
The plums could symbolize something forbidden—pleasure taken without permission. The “cold” sweetness might hint at fleeting joy or sensual satisfaction.
3. A Commentary on Communication
The poem highlights how we express care through small, imperfect gestures. Even a selfish act (“I ate your food”) is softened by honesty and affection.
4. An Anti-Poem
Williams challenges what “counts” as poetry. By using fridge-note language, he democratizes art—proving beauty exists in the mundane.
📚 Expert Insight:
Literary critic Helen Vendler noted that the poem’s power lies in its “unspoken intimacy”—what’s not said (like who “you” is) deepens its emotional weight.
How to Analyze “This Is Just To Say” Like a Pro
Want to write an essay or lead a discussion? Follow these steps:
- Read Aloud
Notice pauses, emphasis, and tone. Where do you naturally slow down? (Hint: “Forgive me” often gets a softer delivery.) - Identify the Speaker & Audience
Who is speaking? Who is “you”? Their relationship shapes interpretation. - Map the Emotional Arc
Guilt → justification → sensual pleasure. Track how feelings shift. - Compare to Traditional Poetry
Contrast with Shakespearean sonnets or Romantic odes. What does Williams reject or embrace? - Consider Historical Context
In 1934, refrigerators (“iceboxes”) were still novel. The domestic sphere was becoming a valid subject for art. - Write Your Own Version
Many teachers ask students to mimic the structure: “I have used your ______ that was in the ______…” This builds empathy and creativity.
Parodies, Pop Culture & Legacy
The poem’s simplicity makes it ripe for imitation. Notable examples:
- Comedian John Mulaney joked about leaving increasingly absurd “This Is Just To Say” notes.
- Saturday Night Live once featured a dramatic reading of a version about eating someone’s lasagna.
- Students worldwide rewrite it with tacos, Wi-Fi passwords, or Netflix accounts.
These parodies prove the poem’s timeless relatability—we’ve all taken something that wasn’t ours… and felt a little guilty (but also satisfied).
FAQ Section
Q1: Is “This Is Just To Say” really a poem?
A: Yes! Though it looks like a grocery note, it’s a carefully crafted piece of modernist poetry. Its lack of traditional form is its innovation.
Q2: What does “icebox” mean?
A: An “icebox” was the early 20th-century term for a refrigerator—cooled by actual blocks of ice. Williams used period-appropriate language.
Q3: Did Williams’ wife forgive him?
A: Historically, yes! Flossie Williams reportedly found the note amusing. Their marriage lasted over 50 years.
Q4: Why are the plums “so cold”?
A: The chill emphasizes freshness and sensory pleasure. It also contrasts with the “warm” guilt of the speaker—creating tension.
Q5: Can I use this poem in my classroom?
A: Absolutely! It’s public domain and widely used to teach tone, imagery, and poetic form. Great for grades 7–12 and beyond.
Q6: Are there hidden meanings in the plums?
A: Possibly. In literature, fruit often symbolizes temptation (think Adam and Eve). But Williams insisted on literalness—letting readers decide.
Conclusion
“I have eaten the plums that were in the icebox” is far more than a snack-time confession. It’s a window into human nature, modernist art, and the poetry hidden in daily life. Whether you’re analyzing it for class or smiling at its honesty, this tiny poem reminds us that great art can come from the simplest moments.
If you enjoyed this deep dive, share it with a friend who loves poetry—or plums! 🍑
Tag us on social media with your own “This Is Just To Say” parody. We’d love to see what you’ve “eaten” (or borrowed… or accidentally deleted!).
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