Favorite Poem: Discovering Personal Poetry Picks
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Today, I’m making a conscious effort to disconnect from social media, yet I can’t help but reminisce about the incredible poetry shared by friends during challenging times in the past. I’m curious: what are your all-time favorite poems? Which lines resonate with you so deeply that they seem to occupy space in your mind indefinitely? Do you have any poems committed to memory that you cherish?
While we’ve previously discussed our favorite songs, this moment is dedicated to the rich world of poetry! Let’s dive into the emotional depth and transformative power that poems can hold in our lives.
From my perspective, the poems that have profoundly impacted me are those that I discovered long ago and have carried with me throughout the years. (Spoiler alert: they tend to lean towards the moody side.) I find it fascinating how these timeless works continue to speak to me. Each reading unfolds new layers of meaning and emotion, revealing insights that resonate differently depending on my personal experiences and current mood. The discourse surrounding the interpretations of these poems is vast, yet I often find that my own feelings guide my understanding, allowing me to connect with various lines in unique ways over time.
Take T.S. Eliot’s “The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock,” for instance. Some might consider it a rather conventional choice—perhaps even a “Karen poem” in today’s terms. Yet, the existential question, “Do I dare to disturb the universe?” continues to challenge me. It reflects the universal struggle of making impactful choices and the fear of stepping outside one’s comfort zone.
Interestingly, I memorized the poem “anyone lived” for a college assignment, and I can still recite about 80% of it from memory. During my pregnancy with my first son, I found myself reciting it aloud to my growing belly, although I can’t pinpoint why I did this. However, I vividly recall one particularly chaotic day shortly after his birth when he wouldn’t stop crying. In a moment of instinct, I began reciting the poem, and miraculously, he calmed down. I like to believe that he recognized the rhythm of the words—perhaps they brought him a sense of peace.
Another poem that has captured my heart is Anne Sexton’s “45 Mercy Street,” which I discovered through Peter Gabriel’s hauntingly beautiful song of the same name. This song was my go-to track whenever I tested out new speakers, seeking that immersive experience. The poem, while not overly cheerful, resonates deeply with me, particularly the line “what can it matter,” which has become a constant presence in my thoughts. It serves as a reminder of the complexities of life and the emotional struggles we all face, even amidst our happiness.
As a final thought on poetry, I want to highlight the book “Love That Dog,” which is an exceptional children’s book for those young readers who may be reluctant to embrace literature. It creatively introduces poetry in a way that captivates and encourages children to explore their own literary voices.
Additionally, I have always been inspired by Lin-Manuel Miranda’s performance at the White House Poetry Jam in 2009. The energy of the performance was infectious, and it was uplifting to witness the audience’s laughter, especially when he began describing what would later become the groundbreaking musical “Hamilton.” My eldest son went through a phase where he was enamored with “Hamilton,” and I’ve used that performance to show him that great ideas often go unrecognized at first. It’s a powerful lesson in perseverance and belief in one’s own creativity.
