The Magic of Poetry: Why We Write?

"Poetry is to prose as dancing is to walking"

- Paul Valery

Poetry is the language of the soul. In the form of wordplay, poetry is the music of the heart. Poetry is a form of magic that has the power to transform our lives. When we read poetry, we are transported to another realm, where we can experience beauty, joy, and peace that is beyond words.

What is Poetry in Literature?

The poem or poetry is the genre of literature that communicates thoughts or tells stories with concentrated, lyrically structured language. Poems can be structured using rhymes and meter to emphasize rhythm and emphasis. Poetry is a formless piece that does not require formal structure to exist. It is one of the oldest forms of art that has always brought peace and solace to humankind.

The Beauty of Poetry

Poetry is often seen as one of the most beautiful forms of expression. It has the ability to capture the emotions and experiences that we all feel, but often struggle to put into words. Through poetry, a poet can invoke a specific emotional response among his readers. Poetry can be a source of comfort and healing. As has been expressed by many thinkers, poets and philosophers, poetry is an escape from reality all the while being present in the reality.

Poems are windows to the soul from where fresh air of perspective and rhythmic music of words flows.

Why do we write poetry?

People write poetry for a variety of reasons. Some people write poetry for personal reasons like to express their deepest emotions and thoughts, while others write poetry to tell stories or to make sense of the world around them. Some people even write poetry as a form of meditation or prayer.

Poetry can help us to see the world in a new light and to experience the beauty and magic of life. It can be a source of strength and courage, helping us to face the challenges of life with hope and grace. When we write poetry, we are creating something that is uniquely our own, and that can be shared with others to bring them joy, comfort, and understanding.

Poetry is a form of pure Art

Poetry is a timeless art form that has helped people survive during the darkest times of war and violence. Poems have been written and read to inspire with ideas and encouraged with stories, like the epic verse written by Homer "Iliad". A verse written can be read and sung for joy and celebration like "Geetanjali" by Rabindranath Tagore

How to appreciate poetry?

Poetry can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age or background. To get the most out of poetry, it is important to read it slowly and aloud, savouring each word and phrase. It can also be helpful to read poetry with a pencil in hand, underlining or highlighting passages that resonate with you. When you come across a poem that you love, try to memorize it so that you can carry it with you always. Nowadays, people like to listen to poetry as well. Poem reciting and spontaneous poetry has grown in popularity.

There are various kinds of poetry, and each one can be appreciated in its own way. No matter what type of poetry you enjoy, there is sure to be something out there that speaks to you.

Types of Poetry

There are many forms of poems, each with its own unique features and purpose. Here are just a few of the most popular types of poetry:

-Narrative poetry

Narrative poems tell stories and can be either long or short. They include epics, ballads, and idylls. Examples could be "The Canterbury Tales" by Geoffrey Chaucer

-Lyric poetry

Lyrical poems are musical and emotional, often capturing a moment or experience or events in a single poem. Examples include sonnets, odes, and ghazals. Shakespearean sonnets can be regarded as a great example

-Haiku

Haiku are short, concise poems that often focus on nature. Examples are “A World of Dew” by Kobayashi Issa, “The Old Pond” by Matsuo Bashō and many more.

-Elegy

Elegy is a poem influenced by the death of a loved one or the loss of someone invaluable. Examples include John Milton's “Lycidas”

-Free verse

Free verse poems do not follow any specific form or structure. TS Elliot's “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock” is a famous example of this category.

"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

The future of Poetry

While poetry has been around for centuries, it is still as relevant and important today as ever. In an age of digital communication and instant gratification, poetry provides a much-needed antidote to the constant noise and distractions of modern life. It can be a refuge from the world, a place where we can slow down and connect with our innermost thoughts and feelings.

Poetry is also an important tool for social change. Poets have always been at the forefront of movements for justice and equality, using their words to raise awareness and inspire action. In a world that is often divided by hatred and violence, poetry can be a powerful force for peace and understanding.

In the digital era of today, poetry has revived and transformed itself. Poetry has risen to new heights on social networks like Instagram and Youtube. Rap music, which is poetry set to music, has taken the world by storm. A poetry slam is a competition in which poets perform their work and are judged by an audience. These have given a stage to the voice of a young poet.

So, today poetry is more accessible than ever before. Anyone can be a poet, and anyone can enjoy poetry. It is an art form for all ages, cultures, and backgrounds. So keep reading, keep writing, and keep enjoying poetry!