The Can Opener
My sister’s favourite word is no,
she ties herself in nots.
We’re searching for a can opener
so she can make it stop.
I’ve told her every cannot
starts with a can
she needs to twist the handle
return where this began.
I know if she digs deep enough
her cans will wrestle free
when she lifts the lid on yeses
she’ll have more fun with me!
she ties herself in nots.
We’re searching for a can opener
so she can make it stop.
I’ve told her every cannot
starts with a can
she needs to twist the handle
return where this began.
I know if she digs deep enough
her cans will wrestle free
when she lifts the lid on yeses
she’ll have more fun with me!
This poem is copyright (©) Emma Phillips 2026
About the Writer
Emma Phillips
Emma Phillips lives, writes and teaches by the M5 in Devon, which sometimes lures her off in search of adventure. Her poetry for children can be found in Tyger, Tyger, The School Magazine, Little Thoughts Press and Paperbound, as well as here on the Dirigible Balloon. She is addicted to crisps.
