CELEBRATING WORLD POETRY DAY - You’re a poet, and you didn’t even know it!
Why We Hate Poetry:
For many people, there’s nothing worse than a day dedicated to reading or even celebrating poetry.
There are countless days dedicated to different art forms, behaviours, or significant groups of people. Many of these observances pass us by, leaving us indifferent, either because of their sheer number or their subject matter.
But the truth about poetry is that people are not just apathetic or ignorant about it—many actually hate poetry. One American writer put it this way:
"Poetry is often met with contempt rather than mere indifference."
Why We Should Enjoy Poetry:
Poetry isn’t the only art form facing this situation. Classical music, jazz, and opera have experienced similar declines and, like poetry, are routinely declared “dead” or, at best, “dying.”
A dislike of poetry can often be traced back to school or to a misunderstanding of what poetry is and what it’s capable of.
We easily forget that entire music genres—whether pop, rock, or gospel—are influenced by poetry. Without poetry, much of the music that the world loves and adores would not exist, whether through its rhyme, lyrics, or themes.
More importantly, we forget the purpose and possibilities of poetry. Like all great art forms, poetry doesn’t just help us think about historical or logical matters; it allows us to express the emotional and spiritual aspects of our lives.
Right at the beginning of the Bible, in the book of Genesis, we see Adam composing and reciting a poem when he first meets his wife:
"At last!" the man exclaimed. "This one is bone from my bone, and flesh from my flesh!"
Genesis 2:23
This moment highlights the power of poetry—its ability to express complex feelings and emotions in just a few simple words.
By reading poetry—and even writing it ourselves—we can express our deepest emotions and better understand ourselves. The hope is that poetry can amplify our happiness and joy while helping to ease sadness when we experience it.
Why We Should Write Poetry:
Most of us haven’t written poetry since we left school, but on World Poetry Day, we have an opportunity not just to read and appreciate poetry but also to write our own.
Although most of us won’t become the next William Shakespeare or Kendrick Lamar, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try. Writing poetry gives us the chance to express our thoughts and feelings in a way we might not be able to in everyday conversation.
To start writing poetry, follow these simple steps:
- Choose a Topic: You can write a poem about anything, but it’s best to start with something you feel passionate about.
- Brainstorm: Spend 15 minutes writing down words and sentences related to your topic.
- Form a Poem: Try linking those words and sentences together to create a few lines— even if it’s only three or four lines, you’ve started writing poetry!
- Read Poetry: One of the best ways to improve your poetry is to read the works of others, especially on topics that excite you.
So today, take a few moments to find and reflect on a poem. And if you have time, jot down some thoughts and feelings—because you, too, can be a poet!
And if you’d like to share it with us- we’d love to see it!