En Garde

Summary

The web content is a reflective dialogue on the value and purpose of poetry, presented through a metaphorical fencing match between an author and a poet.

Abstract

The article titled "En Garde" presents a poetic conversation that delves into the essence and significance of poetry. The author and the poet engage in a metaphorical fencing match, where each thrust and parry symbolize the intellectual exchange about the worth of poetry. The author initially dismisses poetry, claiming it's not for them, while the poet counters by emphasizing the concentrated power of words in poetry. The discussion touches on the motivations behind writing, such as money, fame, and acclaim, ultimately dismissing these as the true reasons. The poet's persistent questioning leads to the author's admission that the pursuit of poetry is driven by love for the art, despite its perceived pointlessness by some. This realization affirms the intrinsic value of poetry and writing, encapsulating the theme of 'Ars Poetica'—a poem about the art of poetry itself.

Opinions

The author initially views poetry as something not meant for them, suggesting a lack of understanding or appreciation.
The poet defends poetry, describing it as a distillation of words to their most potent form.
The author questions the practicality of writing poetry, probing for ulterior motives like financial gain or recognition.
The poet dismisses these external motivations, implying

A discussion between author & poet

When poetry arrives into conversation, the author and I salute before the first thrust of his foil — Poetry is not for me, he says.

By reflex, I parry with — Only words strung together, condensed to their essence.

He lunges, but overextends, and his wicked thrust falls short — But what is the point?

What is the point of writing — my riposte snags the sleeve of his interest — at all? Do you do it for money?

No — a feint that I ignore.

Fame? Acclaim? Applause? Each stop hit of my foil strikes true.

He hesitates as I press the advantage but finally blocks my blow — Not really.

A flurry of attack, my final flèche — Then why pursue something that is so pointless?

He recovers, but retreats knowing defeat — For the love of it.

Aha, I say as the match is called.

This is an Ars Poetica poem, which is a form of poetry with the theme being a conversation about the value of poetry itself.

If you enjoyed this poem, please feel free to check out my other poems here:

And I’d really like to recommend my fellow poets and their recent work:

En Garde

A discussion between author & poet

Poetry

Here’s a collection for your reflection of published poem after poem which all call Medium home.

Blackout Hours

I touch you, interspersed, atom to atom, all trickled waters, vibrating time, transcendental hours, and holy sigh(t)s…

Self-Illumination

What radiant rays told me

Moments of Eternity

A poem about the book