English 101

Discussion: What is Poetry?

Perhaps it is a good session to ask, “What is poetry?”

For inspiration, consider this scene from Mona Lisa Smile.

video assigned to this disscussion:
[Clip from the movie, Mona Lisa Smile, Transcript available here]
mona lisa smile scene 6 0 eng

ANSWER

What is Poetry?

The lecture scene from the ‘Mona Lisa Smile’ lays the foundation of what can be regarded as the interpretation of poetry. Just like there is no clear definition of what art is in the scene, there is no clear definition of poetry. Poetry can be different things to different people. It is a foundation in which the persona may use to express their feelings. In return, poetry evokes different kinds of emotions from the reader depending on how he understands and interprets poetry. It does not conform to any form, rules, or a defined diction.

Poetry is a form of thought that intellectuals can use to express their ambitions and desires. It is the arena that can tackle societal ills and misconceptions and be used to guide how different challenges can be handled. It is also old as day and night, as it has been used since time immemorial by different generations to either entertain themselves or pass certain rituals while reciting poetry.

According to a student, art has standards, techniques, composition, and color that govern it. As much as poetry boasts of being a free-roaming element, the same principles also apply to defining poetry. There are certain techniques and compositions that act as a guide towards composing, writing, or narrating poetry. Elements like rhymes and rhythm are crucial to poetry, and each has its effects.

Poetry soothes the heart in times of tribulations and stands different times of history. According to Percy Shelley (2018), poetry is the best and happiest moments of the happiest and best minds. It allows poets to soar and explore in the imaginary mind and is a mirror that makes distorted things beautiful.

References

Mona Lisa Smile (2009) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-2RqJIXFpYw&t=2s

Shelley, P. B. (2018). A defense of Poetry.