A bit of prose and a poem: here are contributions No. 11 and No. 12 on “Why Poetry Matters” that were submitted for the poetry and wine giveaway last month. The randomly chosen commenter received a copy of L.L. Barkat’s InsideOut: Poems, and the winner of the 100-word statements on what poetry matters received a copy of the poems and a bottle of Sineann wine.
From Anne Lang Bundy at Building His Body:
Why Poetry Matters
Ernest Hemingway said, “Prose is architecture, not interior decoration.”
But I contend that when poetry is captured in prose, they dance; they become what neither is alone, like a couple who’ve long yearned to be together and discover in their union something new and beautiful.
And from Laura Boggess at The Wellspring:
Why Poetry Matters
Because…
the earth shakes
mountains fall
people die
and tears collect
like oceans.
Because…
hearts need
lines
to link together;
strings of words
interlocking souls.
Because…
in looking
for words
we sometimes
find
what truly matters–
it keeps us
looking out
looking in
looking up.
Because…
this fallen world
needs beauty.
that
is why
poetry matters.
- Poets and Fables: Steven Flint and “The Sun and the Boy” - July 3, 2025
- Poets and Poems: Alison Blevins and “Where Will We Live if the House Burns Down?” - July 1, 2025
- Poets and Poems: Paul Pastor and “The Locust Years” - June 26, 2025
Lorrie says
I am so lovin these posts.. every one!
L.L. Barkat says
I liked the idea of a dance in Anne’s.
and this from Laura’s…
“Because…
hearts need
lines
to link together”
Yes, my heart needs that.
laura says
It was right after the earthquake in Haiti, and I was still reeling–still am. It amazes me how, in times of tragedy, beauty becomes an anchor. Poetry anchors me. And I’m only just beginning to discover it’s grace.