A Mom Wrote a Poem About Her Son. 7 Years Later, It appeared on His High School Test Paper

A mother from Ireland experienced a heartfelt moment of coincidence when she discovered that a poem she wrote in 2019 about her son would later feature in his school examination paper. Emily Cullen’s son, Lee, who is now 15 years old, shared the unexpected news with her after completing his English test at Coláiste Éinde secondary school in Galway.

Cullen, who serves as a poet in residence at the University of Limerick, expressed her surprise and pride when Lee told her about the poem’s inclusion. “He had this big, broad smile on his face,” she recounted. “I thought, ‘Oh, that’s good. He must have remembered some Shakespeare quotes.’ Then he said, ‘You won’t believe it, Mum — the poem you wrote about me came up in the paper.’”

The poem, aptly titled “Envoi in Chalk,” was actually inspired by a moment from Lee’s childhood when, at the age of eight, he wrote a cheerful message in chalk on their sidewalk reading, “The world is great.” This simple phrase provided a much-needed lift to Cullen during a challenging period marked by her mother’s hospitalisation. “That message just elevated my whole day,” said Cullen. “It was exactly what I needed to remind me that beauty surrounds us and wonders can be found in everyday life. The poem just flowed from that inspiration; it practically wrote itself.”

Initially published as a ‘poem of the week’ in The Irish Times in December 2019, “Envoi in Chalk” took on an even deeper significance for Cullen following the recent passing of her mother. “I think things come in cycles,” she reflected. “We need to remind ourselves of life’s gifts and the wonders that abound, even amid dark times.”

When faced with questions regarding the poem during his examination, Lee opted for a creative approach. He decided to respond in the third person, believing that his examiners might find it hard to believe he was the subject of the poem. This wise decision showcased both his understanding of the examination process and his respect for his mother’s artistry.

Seamus Kelly, deputy principal at Coláiste Éinde, noted the serendipity of having Cullen’s poem appear in the exam. He emphasized that both Lee’s chalk message and the poem’s themes of optimism and positivity were wonderfully aligned. “The message is so life-affirming, presenting a young boy’s perspective of the world that can uplift everyone,” he stated.

The inclusion of her work in a school test created an emotional moment for Cullen, who described her reaction as one of “pleasant shock.” She reflected on the profound connection between her creative process and her experiences, revealing the unique bond she shares with her son through the poem.

Cullen’s journey as a poet continues to flourish, and she feels grateful to have her poem resonate in such a meaningful way within her family’s life. The story behind “Envoi in Chalk” serves as a reminder that art has the power to connect us in unexpected manners, bringing forth messages of hope and reflection that endure through time.

As Cullen contemplates the impact of her work, she remains committed to capturing the beauty of life through her poetry, inspiring others to find joy and wonder in their everyday experiences.