Poetry has been around for thousands of years, dating back to ancient civilizations. Being such a unique and thought-provoking form of expression, it began as something meant to be performed or read aloud. As time went on, it spread, taking various shapes and structures in different parts of the world. However, in the modern day, are we losing touch with this profound form of literature?
The ability to fully capture one’s emotions and experiences through writing is often a very difficult part of being human. Poetry makes this possible, allowing people to manipulate language in creative ways to help release complicated emotions and process experiences.
In the past, poetry had a deep presence in society. It was an experience that brought people together to enjoy well thought out pieces of literature. It was usually paired with elaborate performances, music and live audiences, setting it apart from other forms of writing. Poems contained integral messages to act as a guide for ways of living and to express pride in cultures and traditions.
While poetry no doubt still exists today, it seems to have lost its depth and become rather underappreciated.
Poetry is rarely used in daily life, often neither written nor read. A once vital, emotional part of humanity has since become irrelevant and sometimes reduced to quick social media poetry or simplified song lyrics.
The main modern forms of poetry are consumed quickly, with the focus shifting toward relatability and popularity, lowering the bar for what is considered a truly exceptional piece of literature.
Along with the digitized shift of this art form, the focus on poetry has been set aside not only by individuals, but also within many academic systems. The practice of reading and writing poetry is lightly encouraged, if at all.
And not only is it less encouraged–it has begun to be considered “weird” or “performative” amongst the younger generation. Just when did society begin to ridicule an incredible way to use the human ability to write and express?
Furthermore, it’s not just poetry society is losing, it’s a way of thinking. Without poetry, we are letting go of a deeper way to express our thoughts and inner turmoil.
To put this into perspective, poetry allows us to practice communication — a requirement to not only have healthy relationships with those around us, but to succeed in every aspect of life. We lose the importance of reflection and humility so we can reevaluate ourselves and become the best we can be.
Our patience for the language and meaning gets swept away, leaving us less reflective and connected to our own thoughts.
Poetry still exists in the corners of our world, living in music, social media posts and rare moments of self-reflection. But as our world moves faster, its depth and significance are no longer recognized as they once were. Poetry remains, quietly hidden beneath the noise we create.
