The Poem

The song 'The Poem' is not a song in the traditional sense but rather a spoken word piece from the movie '10 Things I Hate About You.' This piece is delivered by the character Kat Stratford, played by Julia Stiles, in a pivotal scene where she reveals her complex feelings for Patrick Verona, portrayed by Heath Ledger. The 'song' is a raw and candid expression of the contradictory emotions that often accompany a deep but tumultuous relationship.

The lyrics list a series of annoyances and grievances that Kat has with Patrick, ranging from superficial irritations like the way he cuts his hair to more significant issues such as feeling lied to or ignored. The repetition of 'I hate' at the beginning of most lines emphasizes the frustration and anger she feels. However, as the poem progresses, it becomes clear that these complaints are superficial compared to the overwhelming emotions she actually feels for him. The poem cleverly uses the structure of a list of hates to subvert expectations, leading to the powerful conclusion that she doesn't hate him at all.

The final lines of the poem deliver the twist that, despite all the things she claims to hate about Patrick, she doesn't hate him, not even slightly. This revelation is a testament to the complexity of love and relationships, where negative feelings can exist alongside deep affection. The poem captures the essence of teenage angst and the confusion of first love, resonating with many who have experienced the rollercoaster of emotions that come with a passionate connection. The delivery of the poem in the film, filled with vulnerability and sincerity, has made it an iconic moment in cinema, illustrating the power of words to convey the depth of human emotion.