Prose, Cons and Poetry
The festive season is upon us, and I’ve found myself tinkering with poetry of late. I have an idea you see, as the time for exchanging gifts for our loved ones draws near. Hence, in the hopes of crafting something sincere, I’ve crossed over into a largely unfamiliar mode of writing.
I don’t feel I’m alone in my estimation that poetry is somewhat butchered in the English school system. My own experience was met with boredom and, frankly, irritability as a selection of banal works was thrust upon me and other students with little care or attention, wedged in as part of a broader English Literature syllabus through necessity.
Perhaps, I was too young to appreciate the subtlety of poetry; not yet world-lived and experienced enough to comprehend the deeper meanings and emotions layered within. Or, was I just allured by alternative prose? I tend to side with the latter. The choice, at that time, was an easy one to make. The cons of poetry were conspicuous., and it wasn’t until early adulthood that I began to open myself up to a more bountiful side of poetry, that which had never been quoted or taught to me before.
I developed a taste for haikus initially, and this, in turn, led me to names like Robert Frost, Edgar Allen Poe, and more. Then, sadly, but somewhat inevitably, higher education, travel, personal relationships, and the daily grind of work found prominence in my life. That new appreciation was ultimately neglected in favour of newfound ventures and responsibilities.
Now, with a more seasoned perspective, a more well-rounded appreciation for writing in all prose, and a supportive influence by my side, I’ve opened the door for poetry once again. It’s funny how life tends to work out like that.
I guess it just goes to show, curious reader, under certain circumstances, a con can quite easily become a pro; just as any perceived hindrance can, eventually, become a gift.
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