The origin of the word is Greek, “poesis”, meaning making or creating, but its history is even older.
From the religious poems inscribed on tablets and papyrus in Sumer and ancient Egypt, to those discussed in ancient Greek philosophy, to the cultural foundations laid in the Middle Ages, to those intertwined with other art forms in the Renaissance, to the various branches and themes of poetry that emerged in subsequent centuries, and finally to what we write and read in modern times…
Regardless of era, style or narrative, it has mastered the art of becoming a language for humans, allowing them to express their thoughts in different ways. Sometimes they wrote to appeal to the Creator, sometimes to instill fear in their enemies. They have praised heroes or expressed the feelings in their hearts for their loved ones.
Storytelling is at the heart of humanity, and poetry, with its fictional and beautiful path, has managed to captivate everyone and never let the fire go out. On the contrary, it has been busy diversifying over time under the influence of epochs, individuals or local styles. They have continued to convey emotions and to be constantly produced: Haiku, ballad, lyric, epic or sonnet.
Photo by Owen Michael Grech on Unsplash
Like my friends, I didn’t appreciate poetry until I delved into its seriousness. When I tried to persuade them, the main question naturally revolved around the possible fundamental purposes of poetry.
Poems are not only the expression of inner or even repressed emotions; they can also convey our life experiences. They allow us to express memories as succinctly as possible, as in haiku. They are a good way of staying in the moment.
They are undoubtedly aesthetic. Unlike the mechanical structure of prose, their uniqueness is pleasing to the ear to hear and to the eye to see. It is not just about rhyme and meter; it can encompass all literary devices and styles.
Poetry is an art form that can be performed both verbally and literally. The art is defiant, innovative and encourages questioning. That’s why it can challenge people’s thoughts, beliefs and perspectives. It can also inspire and serve as a guide for others to reveal what lies within.
It is timeless, our legacy to the future. It is the trace of our humanity. Readers can gain insight into us as never before, and benefit from an understanding of the structure of time and society. It is a cultural treasure.
Poetry is not only introspective, but above all social. This art form can be performed not only for oneself, but also with the intention of addressing others. Furthermore, there may be others who can express your creation better than you, so by doing so you are giving them a chance. One of the most beautiful aspects of a work of art, in my opinion, is its ability to merge with other art forms.
In essence, poetry is unifying and brings people together. It either weaves the void within you and connects you to yourself, or it transcends you; it begins to play a role between societies and epochs.
Today is International Poetry Day, which reminds us of the freshness of spring. It shows us hope, joy, sunshine, the sudden rebellious winds or the surprising colourful flowers.
If you have one nearby, pick up a poetry book, even if it’s just one poem. Look, read, understand, or at least try. Connect with what’s written here, enjoy the cultural heritage of humanity.
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