Try it, you'll like it

Really

Red Geraniums © Kathryn LeRoy

Hello friend,

Do you remember the old commercial where the siblings try coaching their younger brother, Mikey, into trying this new cereal? Mickey looks hesitant and they cajole him with, "Try it. You'll like it." One bite is all it took. He was hooked.

Many people, like Mikey, have never tasted the delight of poetry. The only memory that comes up is the agony of a boring English class (heh, I was even an English teacher, I know).

I have a challenge for you today.

Try it again, you might find a few that you like. Don't believe me? Just turn on your radio or streaming music and listen. Music lyrics contain some of the most beautiful poetry you'll find anywhere.

Roses Are Red © Kathryn LeRoy

Did you know that Bob Dylan won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2016? Before joining the Beetles, John Lennon published two books of poetry in 1964 and 1965. You'll find both song lyrics and poetry in Paul McCartney's Blackbird Singing: Poems and Lyrics 1965-1999.

Then there is Jim Morrison, Joni Mitchell, Patti Smith, and Leonard Cohen. And we can't forget Willie Nelson or Kris Kristofferson. A few modern artists include Halsey and Alicia Keys—and many more.

So, when people tell me they don't like poetry, I must, of course, beg to differ. Before written language, poetry was passed on orally through the spoken word and songs. Poetry fills our cars and bedrooms mesmerizing us through earphones and surround sound.

In addition to song lyrics, many favorite poets have followed me like welcome shadows throughout my life. Robert Frost, e.e. cummings, Carl Sandberg, Emily Dickinson, William Carlos Williams, and the list goes on.

Do you have an inspirational favorite? And remember, it doesn't matter if the poem is spoken or sung. Venture out into the world of poetry.

If you dare, I'll be behind you whispering, "Try it. You'll like it."

Amaryllis Couple © Kathryn LeRoy

I wrote about why you shouldn't fear poetry because it lives all around you.

Mary Oliver's poem, "The Summer Day," asks, “Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?” Listen to her read it here.

This video will give you a taste of cowboy poetry and three iconic songwriters, who have written some amazing poetry. Ghost Riders includes the lyrics. And guess what? It looks a lot like a poem :) post

When power corrupts, poetry cleanses.
When power narrows the area of man's concern,
poetry reminds him of the richness and diversity of existence.
When power leads man toward arrogance,
poetry reminds him of his limitations ...
— John F. Kennedy (Ceremony honoring Robert Frost, 1963)

Poinsettia © Kathryn LeRoy

If you would like to read more from me, visit my website. I’ll be there waiting for you.

With gratitude,

Kathryn

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