What is poetry?

Last updated on January 13th, 2022 at 06:25 pm

Poetry is derived from the Greek “poiesis”, which means “making”. It is a form of literature that uses aesthetic and often rhythmic qualities of language to evoke meanings in addition to, or in place of, the understandable meaning. It is the art of rhythmical composition, written or spoken, for exciting pleasure by beautiful, imaginative, or elevated thoughts.

Poetry is also considered as a type of literature based on the interplay of words and rhythm. It often employs rhyme and meter. In poetry, words are strung together to form sounds, images, and ideas that might be too complex or abstract to describe directly. Simply, poetry refers to literature that is written in verse form. It is a special kind of writing in which words, pictures, and sounds combine making a special emotional effect or spontaneous overflow of powerful emotions.

Poetry is regarded as the oldest form of literature. Before writing was invented, oral stories were commonly put into some kind of poetic form; which made them easier to memorize and recite. It has been generally agreed that all music is poetry. Poetry is meant to be recited because it uses words and sounds to excite us making us dance or nod. Even though poetry is meant to be recited but often, it is written down. Poetry is almost always written in verses (lines) and stanzas and the one who writes or recites poetry is a poet.

Example

Thank You, Teachers

Teachers are keys
That unlock the student’s mind.
You are guides who mold our mind.
You are one of a kind.

You are like a shepherd
Who guides the sheep
To the right path.

You, teachers, turn the pages
Of the great books.
You train us well
To reach great heights.

Thank you, teachers,
For all you have done.
In the group of many
You are one.
by Meghana Vincent

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