The Importance Of Poetry In Today’s Modern Society
Poetry as an art form predates written text. The earliest poetry is believed to have been recited or sung, employed as a way of remembering oral history, law, agriculture etc. A rhythmic and repetitive form would make a long story easier to remember and retell before writing was available. A poem based on the history of king Gilgamesh was written around 3000 BC in Sumer, Mesopotamia in cuneiform script on clay tablets. The worlds first known author is considered to be Enheduanna, a woman who lived in the 23rd century BCE in ancient Mesopotamia.
Henry Vivian Derozio is considered the first poet in the lineage of Indian English poetry followed by Rabindranath Tagore, Sri Aurobindo, Sarojini Naidu. Some of the great Indian poets such as Kabir, Kalidas, Mirabai have enriched our culture with their poetry adding a touch of spirituality. Many more followed such as Mirza Ghalib, Amir Khushrow, Kamala Surayya, who made poetry appealing to the general masses. Rabindranath Tagore, who has many poems to his credit is respected as the national writer of India. Sarojini Naidu, the Nightingale of India, has taken Indian poetry across shores. Nissim Ezekiel, honoured with Padmashree in 1988 and Sahitya Academy Award in 1983 is considered the Father of modern Indian English poetry.
Though poems can be classified as narrative, dramatic or lyrical, it is not always possible to demarcate. Poetry can be written as blank verse, rhymed, narrative or pastoral depending on the expression of the poet’s emotions and imagination. Poetry gives us the privilege to understand and appreciate the world from different perspectives of different poets, helping us become more understanding, compassionate and caring human beings. It helps us evolve as human beings as it connects us to spirituality. It teaches us how to live in a socially principled way.
Poetry reflects the different shades of human nature. Each poetry opens a myriad of perspectives and broadens our understanding of human nature. Emotions gain acceptance as we understand and appreciate the world around us.
Poetry is a culmination of art and science. It helps develop the right side of the brain in a left dominant human being and vice versa, thus increasing the average brain capacity. It improves our Intelligent quotient as well as our emotional and happiness quotient. Children who read and write poetry grow up to become mature, emotionally stable, intelligent and innovative leaders.
Poetry has a therapeutic effect on the mind. it is one of the best therapies to calm and heal the soul. It helps soothe tender nerves post-trauma of any dimension. It has a cathartic effect on emotions and brings positivity, revival and rejuvenation. Societies, where poetry is appreciated and encouraged, have flourished as progressive, stable, ingenious and peace-loving.
Poetry is power. Words have the ability to influence and bring change. Great nations are built by leaders who can inspire, ignite and galvanise. Poetry gives the combination of inspirational warcry in mellow lyrics, helping awaken the masses.
Poetry is the highest form of literature, with the ability to make our world a better place. However, it needs to reach out to everyone and we need to celebrate it.
Written by : admin
