"Some Opposites" by Richard Wilbur

A stanza of this poem was included in a collection of nature poetry we found at a lovely nature-themed library in our city. Before reading it, I asked the kids what they thought the opposite of a cloud would be. Then I read it, and every time I had to laugh at the hilarious beauty and surprise of the description. I was less impressed by the poem in its entirety, but still delighted enough in sections to include it here.

What is the opposite of riot?

It’s lots of people keeping quiet.

The opposite of doughnut? Wait

A minute while I meditate.

This isn’t easy. Ah, I’ve found it!

A cookie with a hole around it.

What is the opposite of two?

A lonely me, a lonely you.

The opposite of a cloud could be

A white reflection in the sea,

Or a huge blueness in the air,

Caused by a cloud’s not being there.

The opposite of opposite?

That’s much too difficult. I quit.