Why does Wesley write poems instead of the assigned essay in Mr Ward class?

Wesley writes poems instead of essays in Mr. Ward's class in the novel "The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian" by Sherman Alexie for several reasons:

* He struggles with writing traditional essays: Wesley is a talented writer, but he finds the structure and formality of essays challenging and stifling. He expresses himself more naturally and authentically through poetry.

* Poetry allows for a more personal and emotional voice: Wesley's poems often explore themes of poverty, racism, and identity, which are deeply personal and emotional experiences for him. Poetry provides a medium for him to express these feelings in a way that traditional essays cannot.

* Poetry is a form of resistance: Wesley feels marginalized and misunderstood in his community and at school. By writing poetry, he is asserting his own voice and challenging the expectations placed upon him.

* Poetry is his way of connecting with the world: Wesley's poems are often inspired by his observations of the world around him. He uses poetry to process his experiences and connect with others on a deeper level.

While Mr. Ward initially discourages Wesley from writing poems, he eventually comes to appreciate his talent and recognizes the importance of allowing Wesley to express himself in his own way. This demonstrates the importance of embracing individual creativity and understanding the challenges faced by students from marginalized backgrounds.