Words cannot express how much i love you
i wish i could show you
but even if i could
would you understand?
Perhaps you would
and perhaps you wouldn’t
but i know that i love you
and that is all that matters.
~ Mitchell Wilkinson
There is no one who hasn’t been touched by the power of words.
Whether it’s a book that has transported us to another world, or a poem that has helped us make sense of our own, the right words can change our lives forever.
And there is no greater proof of the power of words than the fact that poems have been changing the world for centuries.
From the ancient Greeks to the modern day, poets have used their words to inspire change, challenge orthodoxy and shine a light on the human experience.
So what is it about poems that make them so powerful?
And how can we use their power to change the world for the better?
The power of poems lies in their ability to touch our emotions. They can make us laugh, cry, think and feel.
In a world where we are often bombarded with information, they offer a chance to slow down and really connect with what is being said.
Poems can also be incredibly concise, which means they can pack a lot of punch into a few short lines. This means they can be easily remembered and shared, making them the perfect tool for spreading a message far and wide.
Finally, poems have the ability to transcend language barriers. Whether it’s through rhyme or metre, poems can communicate their message in a way that everyone can understand.
So how can we use poetry to change the world?
One way is by using them to raise awareness of important issues.
For example, poets have long been at the forefront of the environmental movement, using their words to highlight the need for action on climate change.
Poems can also be a force for social change. In the past, they have been used to challenge discrimination and promote equality.
Today, they can be used to tackle pressing issues like mental health, homelessness and addiction.
Finally, poems can be a way of simply bringing people together. In a world that is often divided, they offer a chance for us to come together and see the common humanity that we all share.
Poetry gives us a glimpse inside someone else’s world
It allows us to see the world from a different perspective and to feel empathy for people we may never meet.
It gives us a snapshot of what life is like for another person. What inspires them, what hurdles and challenges they face, and how they journey through life.
And in a world that is sometimes difficult to understand, poetry can be a source of hope and inspiration.
Poetry as therapy
If you’re struggling to cope with a difficult situation, poems can be a great source of comfort. They can offer a new perspective on your problems and help you to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Exploring word-choice and meaning
When you read a poem, pay attention to the words that are used. What do they mean? How do they make you feel?
Is there anything you can relate to?
The answers to these questions will be different for everyone, but the process of exploring them can be therapeutic in itself.
Reciting poems aloud
There is something special about hearing a poem aloud. The rhythm and the sound of the words can be calming and soothing, and it can be a great way to connect with the meaning of the poem.
So next time you need a little inspiration, pick up a poem and let the words change your world.