Another great post! Your reflection about wishing for poems to replace the monotony of Catholic prayers struck a chord with me. While I’ve never been Catholic, for most of my life I was a very devout Mormon. As I continue to deal with what leaving that religion means some five years later, the notion of replacing some of the teaching I memorized with poems feels light and alluring. I think I’ll choose some Ada Limon poems.
It’s been a long time since I memorized any poems. Lots of song lyrics, but few poems. I know Robert Frost’s Fire and Ice and maybe, if I strain, a handful of haiku by Basho and Issa.
Thanks Jason. <3 One day we will be in the same city and talk about our respective flights from the religions we grew up with. Ada Limon is a great choice!
Fire and Ice is one I hear a lot when talking about memorizing poetry. I do love that poem, but never memorized it. I think I'll add that one to my list as well. Because it seems like such a delightful experience to be out in the world someday and be able to recite a poem with a stranger.
Another great post! Your reflection about wishing for poems to replace the monotony of Catholic prayers struck a chord with me. While I’ve never been Catholic, for most of my life I was a very devout Mormon. As I continue to deal with what leaving that religion means some five years later, the notion of replacing some of the teaching I memorized with poems feels light and alluring. I think I’ll choose some Ada Limon poems.
It’s been a long time since I memorized any poems. Lots of song lyrics, but few poems. I know Robert Frost’s Fire and Ice and maybe, if I strain, a handful of haiku by Basho and Issa.
Thanks Jason. <3 One day we will be in the same city and talk about our respective flights from the religions we grew up with. Ada Limon is a great choice!
Fire and Ice is one I hear a lot when talking about memorizing poetry. I do love that poem, but never memorized it. I think I'll add that one to my list as well. Because it seems like such a delightful experience to be out in the world someday and be able to recite a poem with a stranger.
That will be a wonderful day!