At five years of age, Elijah Soza has already accomplished a
feat that some people spend years chasing
– publishing a poem.
Gilroy – At five years of age, Elijah Soza has already accomplished a feat that some people spend years chasing – publishing a poem.
The third-generation Gilroyan was chosen as a finalist from among tens of thousands of entrants in the River of Words Environmental Poetry and Art Contest. Soza’s six-line poem, My Name is Elijah, was published in an anthology of selected winners, “River of Words: The Natural World as Viewed by Young People.” He received copies of the book and was honored at an awards ceremony in late April.
Soza, who cannot read or write, dictated the poem to Sarojani Rohan – his kindergarten teacher at Mount Madonna School. It was part of a class project on nature, in which students visited the rivers and ponds located on the 355-acre campus.
“Like any good teacher, you’re going to engage their senses,” Rohan said. “I wanted them to see it, feel it, smell it.”
After walking through the woods, students discussed how they felt about being in the forest. During these talks, students such as Soza developed personifications of nature. His poem is a conversation with a river.
Asked what is his favorite aspect of nature, Soza said, “It’s nice to me.”
Soza’s mother, Valentina Soza, said the award has inspired him to become – in addition to a basketball player and a teacher – a writer.
“He’s been on this kick where he’s rhyming things,” she said.
When he comes up with a new poem, he asks her to write it down. Poetry has provided a way for him to distinguish himself from his older brother and sister.
“He’s taking advantage of all the attention,” Valentina Soza said. “Especially since he’s the third child.”
Although, Soza surprised his family with his award, they are not letting the accolades go to his head, she said.
“He still has to pick up his room,” she said.
