dumbfoundry

Why poetry?

Poetry is the highest art - to touch with care. It truly combines the supposed objectivity of science; the contemplation of philosophy; the mysticism of religion; the movement of the dance; the colour and shape of art and architecture; the energy of sport and love; the passion of war; the subtlety of diplomacy; and the beauty of music. Each well-made poem is a microcosm of what is best (and perhaps worst) about us. Poetry very definitely can and does have a social impact. I was editorial coordinator for Poets against the war, and also led the peace poetry e-book revolution of 2003. We staged readings around the world, and were able to bear witness. I think performance poetry has a place. At its best, it returns us to the necessary communal, organic, ancient and mysterious power of poetry. At its worst, it is an embarrassment: beer-farts and cheap gags, trivializing the goddess we crave. Slam was a vital movement of the 90s. It is still growing, but I think it may have peaked as a movement. We need to move beyond competitions, to projects of conciliation, sharing and community-building. Poetry should not be marketed only as entertainment, but as something ubiquitous and necessary, like water.

This entry was posted by Ivy on Monday, June 13, 2005 at 11:05 AM. You can skip to the end and leave a response.