Poetry Shapes Me

Summary

The author reflects on the profound influence of poetry throughout their life, from childhood to adulthood, and muses on the reciprocal relationship between themselves and the art form.

Abstract

The author describes a childhood steeped in the verses of Robert Louis Stevenson, Frost, Dickinson, and e.e.cummings, with fond memories of reciting poems while swinging and finding comfort in the works of Emily Dickinson and Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. As an adult, the author continues to draw inspiration from poetry, particularly Mary Oliver, to appreciate life's simple beauties and to navigate complex emotions. The author ponders whether their Greek name, suggesting a destiny entwined with poetry, has preordained their relationship with the craft, and whether they, in turn, will influence poetry's evolution.

Opinions

Poetry has been a constant and essential companion in the author's life, as nurturing as comfort food and as inspiring as beloved children's books.
The author finds personal expression and emotional solace in poetry, using it as a tool for self-care and a means to articulate profound emotions.
There is a sense of destiny in the author's relationship with poetry, hinted at by their Greek name, which they believe may influence their contribution to the art form.
The author views poetry as a dynamic entity that not only shapes them but may also be shaped by them, suggesting a symbiotic relationship where both the poet and the craft evolve together.

Poetry’s role in my life

I grew up on hotdogs, hamburgers and Robert Louis Stevenson;

from my swing set as a child, I would sing, “how I love to go up in the swing, up in the sky so blue, oh I do think it’s the pleasantest thing ever a child to do”. (Robert Louis Stevenson)

Books of Frost, Dickinson and e.e.cummings sat on my bedside table while out-grown copies of Dr. Seuss collected dust on the bookshelf.

My favorite, “if Nancy Hanks came back…” comforted me while “Tales of Evangeline” enthralled and inspired.

Poetry was part of my life, as essential as summertime popsicles and wintertime hot chocolate.

Even today, treasured lines of Mary Oliver flow through me when I stop to ponder

the beauty of a running fox, a trickling stream or an elderly couple walking hand-in-hand.

Poems and songs are my comfort and basis of self-care to express my deepest joys or heartfelt pain and how, at times, they intertwine.

Foreshadowed by my Greek name, poetry shapes me. And I as channel new poems bubbling within, will I shape poetry as it unfolds?

PROMPT

Poetry Shapes Me

Poetry’s role in my life