What is Poetry? by Brendan Conboy

W. Somerset Maugham said, “The crown of literature is poetry.” As writers, what then do we think when we hear the word poetry? What is poetry? Do you agree with Maugham?

Ask 100 different people what they think poetry is and you will hear 100 different answers. Some will say that it is rubbish because they don’t understand it or relate to it. That is the same as saying, “All music is rubbish.”

I say, “Poetry is communication art. The power in words transforms a heart.”

Michael Rosen, in his book, ‘What is Poetry?’ says that poetry is something that someone writes and calls it a poem. In other words, if the author of a recipe for a fruit cake decided to call their recipe a poem, Michael would say that it is. Do you agree with Michael?

Consider these other quotes…

 ·       “Poetry is nearer to vital truth than history.” – Plato

·       “Poetry is the spontaneous overflow of powerful feelings: it takes its origin from emotion recollected in tranquillity.” – William Wordsworth

·       “Poetry is when an emotion has found its thought and the thought has found words.” – Robert Frost

·       Genuine poetry can communicate before it is understood.” - T. S. Eliot

·       “I decided that it was not wisdom that enabled poets to write their poetry, but a kind of instinct or inspiration, such as you find in seers and prophets who deliver all their sublime messages without knowing in the least what they mean.” – Socrates

If you like these quotes find more HERE.

To be fair to Michael Rosen, his book doesn’t actually answer the question of what poetry ‘IS.’ Instead, he talks about what it does, how it makes you feel and what you can do with it.

Rosen says poetry can…

·       Suggest things

·       Give an impression

·       Express a belief or culture

·       Play with words

·       Be symbolic

·       Be personal

·       Borrow voices

·       Capture a moment

·       Be ironic

·       Make new sense

·       And more

As Christian writers, isn’t this what we all want to achieve from our work?

Let’s go back to what I said above – ‘Words can transform a heart.’ I have presented many rhyming poetry workshops with various groups. Occasionally, someone present will tell me that they don’t ‘GET’ poetry. Then, after just a few hours their hearts are transformed and they too demonstrate their creative talents. I am always moved by this.

Ultimately, for me, poetry helps me to draw closer to God. This is what I want for others. I am, therefore, always seeking new opportunities and groups to work with. If you would like to know more about me coming to your group, for a time of poetic transformation, please contact me.

Brendan Conboy aka Half Man Half Poet is the author of 16 published books including two fascinating autobiographies, The Golden Thread and I'm Still VALUED.  In 1986, Brendan invited Jesus into his life and God blessed him with the gift of rhyming words.  He used that gift as a Christian Rap artist for 25 years and has written 6 poetry books including the entire Book of Psalms in Rhyme.  He has 3 published novels - Issues, Invasion of the Mimics and Legacy of the Mimics.  He is the creator of Book Blest Christian book festival.  Brendan is available for speaking events, poetry performances and workshops.  Visit Brendan's website HERE.