The shortest poem in the English language consists of only two words, "I, why?"'

John Claypool is among the best half-dozen contemporary 'writing preachers' in the English language. Here's something for Lent - http://jmm.aaa.net.au/articles/2855.htm

to which a friend responded:

The second shortest is:

"For sale, baby shoes, never worn."

By E Hemingway