Another reason: I met an elderly man at a party when i had recited a poem, and he recited one, and we kept going back and forth with this. It turned out he had escaped from a concentration camp in Poland as a small boy. He had had to run/walk alone many miles across snowy fields to try to find safety. He said he recited every poem he knew to keep his spirits up.
This was great, thanks, I been tryin to find out about "good ways to memorize things" for a while now, and I think this has helped. You ever tried - Yiyevi Ponevi Approach - (just google it ) ? Ive heard some great things about it and my cousin got excellent success with it.
Candice, I'm from Poland and I have to say that German concentration camps wasn't in Poland, but in General Government (in a German zone of occupation established after the invasion of Poland by Nazi Germany).
I knew a former POW who, as a young man in a POW camp, kept his and his fellow prisoners' spirits up by singing all the hundreds of church hymns he had memorized throughout his every Sunday churchgoing childhood. Everyone who could sing or recite anything pitched in.
When I was younger I had my favorite poem by Edgar Allan Poe memorized, but I've long since lost it. I also had many scriptures memorized. You've inspired me again, thank you!
Yes, poetry can be very moving. Also, they can be deeply defining and personal. My favorite poems since my youth: “Do not walk in front of me I may not follow Do not walk behind me I may not lead Just walk beside me And be my friend” ~Albert Camus Also Love, What It Is by Robert Herrick: Love is a circle, that doth restless move In the same sweet eternity of Love. 💞
This is a lovely idea. I've considered memorizing some of my favourite poems before, particularly after learning that my grandfather who's in his mid-80s can still recite from memory a poem that moved him deeply when he was young.
Frank James is speaking the Truth. In the 15 years of teaching in rural, northern California (Yuba county), I have required ALL of my students to memorize 15 poems throughout the school year. All must copy them as I have them typed into their own Composition Books. The types I use are Lyrics, Sonnets and Ballads. I have a variety of ELLs as well as low level readers (as low as 2nd grade!!) in my 8th grade English classes. With the rare occasion, an overwhelming majority of my students do what I require and raise their confidence and IQ ability. We feed into one high school in the district and I follow my students' progress. On average (I am one of 3 8th grade teachers in English), I double the percentage of graduating seniors as compared to my peers. I get and I collect letters and emails thanking me for making them memorize, recite and copy these poems. The overwhelming majority of my students who graduate from HS are first timers in their families and some continue on in college or university. I am a published poet and playwright. I have everything memorized that I require my students to do. I brought Poetry Out Loud to the twin county area (Yuba and Sutter) 12 years ago as a Board member of the Yuba-Sutter Arts Council. Why the long-windedness? Because it doesn't require a service club sponsorship, a go fund me, a rich aunt, a MacArthur Genius Grant, or some special skill. We all can do this and we all can bring literacy and thoughtfulness back to popular culture. The poems in order of memorization: The Eagle, The Wind (James Reeves), Catch a Little Rhyme, Miller's End, The Blind Men and the Elephant, from R & J, Act 1, scene 5, lines 95-109 (boys are Romeo and girls are Juliet), Love at Sea, Fire and Ice, The New Colossus, 3 by Dickinson, On First Looking into Chapman's Homer, Annabelle Lee, Jabberwocky. Each one has lessons and quizzes (they copy my Poetic Terms for Noetic Worms in their CBs, and some have artwork assignments or group presentations for extra credit. I thread Figurative Language throughout the school year. I have found it makes for better critical thinkers and writers on the other assignments. Jonathan Kinsman.
Yes. Most of the first five books of the Bible was spoken word knowledge until it was written down. And in Native American, aboriginal, and various other nomadic cultures, everything was initially oral-auditory. Poetry and the biblical mystical writings are absolutely exquisite and interesting. So much depth; often multilayered even when it seems like it's oversimplified. Reading, and writing, either, adds interest, absolutely.
I’m into Russian literature. Alexander Solzhenitsyn is my favorite author. I’m always quoting items from his writings. Even just to myself. Another great video Frank.
very well said. as a 17 yrs old, I am in love with reading and understanding poetry. And now, guess what, I am going to memorize my fav poems. thank you soo much.
I have been to Johnny Cash’s grave in Henderson, TN. Not that I made a pilgrimage there or anything-it’s just a friend of mine’s parents lived in the subdivision right next to it so we walked over. It is so simple and unassuming despite him being an absolute music legend. He is surrounded by average Joes and the only thing remarkable about his resting place is that there is a tree that broke through the pavement and started growing right in the middle of the sidewalk by it. It is really cool how nature finds a way. Also, fans around the would leave letters and trinkets on that very plain and average-looking graveside of his. *Edit to add I just looked up the gravesite and it appears they’ve built it up a little more than it was when I visited it 15 yrs ago but it is still pretty unassuming for a music legend’s final resting place.
Hey Frank, I know this video is 4 years old, but I just recently discovered your channel. I enjoy it very much! Just wanted to say, when I was in high school, we had to memorize a lot of stuff. Multiplication tables, The Bill of Rights, The Gettysburg Address, just to name a few. Love the channel, Thank you!
2004... old days. Chicago has a few lines, filled with simple pleasures 😎 goes back a bit further 🤩 you’re a sensitive soul and I love that you bring that to your channel! I am an old soul glad to see your keeping it alive 🙏🏼 Namaste
I paint, I write poetry, I'm an infj (is there a connection there?) But I can't memorize even my own poetry the way I wish I could. How can I improve my memory?
This is a great topic. I’m fascinated by the idea of 19th century families spending the evening in the back parlor, entertaining each other. I have a few poems memorized. Two are actually by Frost. Have you seen the movie about Keats, “Bright Star”? Keats is a guest in a home and the hostess asks him to recite one of his own poems. Encouraging more people to memorize poems is great. I had been working on memorizing “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud” by Wordsworth but I had actually forgotten about that project. I should get back to it, thanks!
Memorizing songs from musicals is more my thing. Especially since I'm going to take a leap one day & audition for community theater. I'm also learning other genres. I've never broke into song on a first date. That might be a little bit much compared to just reciting a poem.
I love poetry. Just got my own copy of Leaves of Grass and have been holding off starting into it because I want to devote a lot of time to really sink into it. Not easy when you have life issues stressing you out and are already reading about six other books. 😬 Memorization can be wonderful. I was watching a show the other day and there was an older gentleman that was showing off his gardens and he quietly recited a poem about the Autumn of Life. The way he recited it from memory gave me chills.
Yes, I AM from the Old School.....very, very Ancient. I would have enjoyed this video more if it was recorded in evening lighting, and if you would have selected one of your favorite poems and read it to us. Which would mean you would have had to of followed your own advice and memorized it because it is very hard to actually see and read poems in romantic lighting. :) True.
I learned a Robert Frost poem to recite by heart while playing my harp. The Birthplace. I even performed it on stage! This is a great idea for everyone. I'm going to learn more. We memorized Abe Lincoln's "Four Score and Seven Years Ago..." piece in elementary school. I still remember most of it.
That's all great and swell, but I know a lot of poems and rarely tell people, because... Why would I just randomly just start citing Shakespeare?! "Heyy! How was your day?!" "When in disgrace with fortune and mens eyes, I all alone beweep my outcast state...!"
You memorize poems? My grandpa (who was an INTP) used to recite poems 😊 To be honest with you, I can’t always feel a connection to the poems I read. I love Emily Dickinson the most. Perhaps because I understand her words on a deeper level. I will leave a poem in continuation. Who knows? Perhaps you will read the comment with the poem and feel inspired. It is by Fernando Pessoa. I have read it recently and even done an illustration on it. Here goes: To see the fields and the river It isn't enough to open the window. To see the trees and the flowers It isn't enough not to be blind. It is also necessary to have no philosophy. With philosophy there are no trees, just ideas. There is only each one of us, like a cave. There is only a shut window, and the whole world outside, And a dream of what could be seen if the window were opened, Which is never what is seen when the window is opened.
When I was younger, I had extreme social anxiety. It was debilitating and I hated it. I knew in my mind that my fear and anxiety weren't rational, but I had no coping skills to help. I love poetry, singing, dancing, and the few times I acted in skits for my youth group were exhilarating.... So, I decided to audition for my local community theatres summer musical. Truly one of the best decisions of my life. I was forced to stand in front of an audience and give them my best while they judged me. At first the stage fright was gripping... But I forced myself to get out there night after night. I was committed and other people depended on me to play my part, no matter how small. After that show I did another one, then another. I still have social anxiety, but I know how to push past it now. Instead of my insecurities being a booming voice in the forefront of my mind, they are now mostly a tiny suggestive whisper way in the back. It's so freeing to be able to be myself(ish) and not be held back by all the "what ifs".
I love it! You are so refreshing! I feel connected to your ideas. I will look for my favorite poet because I dont have one. I'll start with the one you mentioned.
I'm a delivery driver, and I memorize poetry to help the boredom. Sleep is important! If you work at memorizing something, you'll find that you know it better after a nap or a night's sleep!
I haven't memorized poetry but memorizing my sister's phone number saved me from a very expensive Uber. I had a rollover accident at night in the middle of nowhere, 130 miles away from home. My phone flew out of one of the shattered windows. My friend tried calling it but we couldn't find it as it was on vibrate 😒 . My passengers were taken to the hospital before I tried calling my sister. A state trooper showed up and gave me a ride to the hospital and he let me use his phone to call my sister to pick us up from the hospital. 🙂
*If* you are going to recite poetry on a date...1) Always lead with a intro to the poem which means maybe even asking if they would want to hear some... you can't just burst into it. *This way you likely won't creep them out, you asked for permission* 2) Give the title and the author before starting 3) know the guidelines/rules to reciting poems ... it's not as simple as just memorizing them. And then as long as the poem fits the occasion, why not? EDIT: Probably not on the first date and when alone and in private too. Otherwise yeah you could creep them out or at least make an awkward moment. I used to not be able to write at all. I was TERRIBLE at writing and English. I couldn't even pronounce English well but maybe because of Ne, I wrote a poem in fifth grade for a science project that got state wide recognition. I wrote a TON of poems as it was really all I could write well and my teachers would ask me to emulate all types of poets with poetry....I have piles and piles of poetry I wrote when I was little. So I was known to be constantly writing them for others and then others would write them for me.... So my point is I went through a BUNCH of awkward moments of guys just bursting out in front of a whole crowd with their poetry for their love for me and it was AWKWARD especially since I am on the asexual spectrum namely Demi, the chances that I liked them back was ZERO most likely. I did find it sweet and endearing but did they have to do it in public? I much appreciated the ones that would do it in private. I am assuming though on a date at least there is some interest amongst the two, but I wouldn't do it on a first date and not where others could over hear. idk just my experienced two cents. Poetry is like music although not music. Proper time, place and Rhythm to it are required for the right effect.
Frank some very real things have happened that I can't forget. And I find myself just wanting to be sarcastic...so I have had to look at myself!!! Hahahaha. Then I think maybe sarcasm is the best thing...I think you understand this. If you win what are you going to do?? Put that little trophy on your mantle? HAHAHA. Because I still think you have something to prove. What do you have to prove Frank? I question this whole comment and think it might be meaningless but you know I'm scared to write comments to you. I realized confessing my insecurities and shying away from the challenge is actually the best thing I could do!! (But what will I think tomorrow?) I won't forget the real things...I won't forget
I actually had that assignment in school, to recite a bit of Shakespeare. In a class of 30, I couldn’t remember the poem. It’s not that I didn’t want to, it’s because it was really hard for me and I didn’t want to mess up in front of my peers. I did a written alternate assignment instead and when someone asked why I didn’t have to do my part. I was so embarrassed. The teacher said I had an alternate assignment and everyone was so mad at me. It’s not like Shakespeare is in the common tongue, you know? You have to throw away what you know about grammar and speaking and learn a new language almost. In short, I really hate olde English. 😓
Creeping u fj while trying to finish my masters thesis i am poet it is important 2 me u should check out my first fav spoken word artist anis mojgani really breathes life into his writing and he is all around angel of human. His ted talk called ‘equal parts science and magic’ saved me once. U a mystic boi i think u would appreciate ok tysm love u bye
The Guest House This being human is a guest house. Every morning a new arrival. A joy, a depression, a meanness, some momentary awareness comes as an unexpected visitor. Welcome and entertain them all! Even if they are a crowd of sorrows, who violently sweep your house empty of its furniture, still, treat each guest honorably. He may be clearing you out for some new delight. The dark thought, the shame, the malice. meet them at the door laughing and invite them in. Be grateful for whatever comes. because each has been sent as a guide from beyond. - Jellaludin Rumi, translation by Coleman Barks
The first poem I had to memorize was O captain My captain, in 5th grade. I still remember all of it. Growing up I loved poetry and reciting things, still do. My brother and I have always had this joke where if we find something in an odd place eg. mug, we go on making a 'who's mug is this, I think I know. The sink is in the kitchen though'... 'he will not see me sipping it, or washing it real slow'
Have you read any Jack Gilbert? He's my favorite poet. I've read "A Brief for the Defense" and "Say You Love Me" so many times I almost have them memorized.
I don’t think I could memorize poetry because i feel like i wouldn’t do it justice. Plus, I’m fairly familiar with Spanish poetry but I’m not very familiar with English poetry in general. If anything, I found “Bright Star” by John Keats to be very insightful for such a simple direct message. John Donnes “The Flea” was funny to me because I knew a little bit about his “womanizing” background so it’s pretty interesting to think his poetry was the original flirting! Overall, I’ve found Shakespeare to be more varied in topics when it comes to his poetry, whether its insights about the self or a lover. I think this is why most people automatically think of Shakespeare when it comes to poetry and prose. Any poem by Pablo Neruda is beautiful and romantic (provided that you like romance and can find a translation or read Spanish lol). PWhile I enjoy poetry I think I find prose/literature more interesting, and sometimes you find that much of the language used in prose can be just as insightful as poetry, combined with the context that builds up throughout the story. I really enjoy reading Haruki Murakami, particularly the Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, because the writing reflects so much insight about characters and emotions in a very raw manner. I also think Yasunari Kawabata’s Snow Country has a lot of poetic language and themes about relationships in general. Finally, Osamu Dazai’s No Longer Human is one of my favorites because it’s one of those rare books that has so much rawness that it makes me want to cry. That along with the language just makes you an emotional roller coaster. I’m sorry I’m rambling on about prose, but I really think that if poetry is not your thing, being able to discuss (probably not memorize unless you’re that amazing haha) prose and be exposed to different ways of expressing emotions can make you very interesting provided you even like poetic language to begin with. And I’m just very passionate about literature in general 😂😂😂
Many thanks, I been tryin to find out about "how to memorize fast and effectively" for a while now, and I think this has helped. You ever tried - Yiyevi Ponevi Approach - (Have a quick look on google cant remember the place now ) ? Ive heard some interesting things about it and my co-worker got great success with it.
That’s very astute advice for everyone. I think poetry not only can feed one’s soul, but can make them more conscious of life. My favorite class was A.P. English Literature & Composition, mainly for the poetry. I thought I would share one of my favorites. Thank you for mentioning this as well, it’s inspired me to write more of my own poetry and reminded me why I love it so much. “When, in disgrace with fortune and men’s eyes I all alone beweep my outcaste state, and trouble deaf Heaven with my bootlegs cries, And look upon myself and curse my fate, Wishing me like to one more rich in hope, Featured like him, like him with friends possessed. Desiring this man’s art and that man’s scope with what I most enjoy contented least; Yet in these thoughts myself almost despising; Haply I think on thee; then my state, (Like to the lark at break of day arising from sullen earth) sings hymns at Heaven’s gate; For thy sweet love remembered such wealth brings. This then I scorn to change my state with kings.” ~Shakespeare Poetry a dying art, that shall be resurrected.
WILD GEESE You do not have to be good. You do not have to walk on your knees For a hundred miles through the desert, repenting. You only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves. Tell me about despair, yours, and I will tell you mine. Meanwhile the world goes on. Meanwhile the sun and the clear pebbles of the rain are moving across the landscapes, over the prairies and the deep trees, the mountains and the rivers. Meanwhile the wild geese, high in the clean blue air, are heading home again. Whoever you are, no matter how lonely, the world offers itself to your imagination, calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting - over and over announcing your place in the family of things. MARY OLIVER
nay, i was learning plenty of poems before, i never remember them now. people forget whatever they dont use in life. unless you are going to cite it to the every person you see in your life every day it's utterly useless
I am a bit older and went to school in a different country...we had to memorise poems in primary school...I think it helps your brain grow faster ☺ But I once randomly memorised the capitals of all of the United states...your country seems so organised on the map ☺
The only poem I know by heart is a Shakespeare love sonnet. Like as the waves make toward the pebbled shore so do our minutes hasten to their end ..... I write my own Hiku poetry. Rain flows over the dome. Golden drops in the morning Swallowed by shadows. (Can’t even spell Hiku)
I live nostalgia, it's so interesting how people used live, what they wore ect, 1920's_1940's. Wow the cars back then. Thanks Frankie XX Poetry is sexy.
message to all: struggling to make yourself more interesting than you really are is pretty pretentious imo. just let things come natural, don't strain to seem like an interesting person. of course, if you actually like poetry and you really *want* to memorize poems, then good for you. but if you just want to be interesting and thus choose poems as a way to become interesting, then youre missing authenticity which is really not cool. its actually really disgusting. just be yourself.
maybe i'm not making myself clear. you can want to be interesting - that's fine, but if youre taking up hobbies you don't care about at all for the sole purpose of coming across as interesting, then i'd say there's something wrong.
It is great to hear someone else who thinks that memorizing poetry is an important art! My new year's resolution this year was to memorize a new poem every week. I've already memorized 10 and I don't plan on slowing down anytime soon.
Anyone else doomed to be drab? Memorization is not a strong point for me. In fact, it's a huge struggle. In school I always had a difficult time with subjects that required memorization... history (dates, names, places) was the worst. It wasn't until I had high school world history teacher that was incredibly engaging and brought stories to life that I started doing a bit better with it. But memorizing just to memorize or test for? Brain dead. I'll remember the feeling and overall message but never the details.
Yes, that king of memorizing is horrifyingly boring. But memorization is an important skill. The best way i learn to do it was by learning music. There is a method to memorizing pieces that applies to all other subjects. It's also staves off dementia. Do it regularly, and your brain stays young.
I remember loving The Road Not Taken back in elementary, and we discussed it in high school and my teacher was amazed because I was able to recite in class. I've forgotten some words now that I'm in college tho. But still I recite it when I comfort my confused friends with their life decisions and they would thank me for reciting that poem 😂
Totally. If our brains are capable of it, then it’s meant to happen. The Oral Tradition is everything. We are storytellers through and through. Memorising all of Hamlet’s speeches is a must for INFJs. And check out TS Eliot’s Four Quartets: Profound ...
Retrograde An ape swings low on a storm lashed tree Bleeding from sting of alluvial sand And strife from the wound of living Man, Far distant now from dank of jungle Satiate, soft in a down filled room Scorn the thought of a newer struggle Points a flabby hand at doom I wish I could give credit to the author, but I memorized this in 1992, and don't remember. I don't think he/she was very well known. Cheers.
Ocean Vuong if you're into a new age from a long lost era. Funny enough reciting poetry has cropped up for me a few times as something I'd like to be able to do ; aside from being able to play guitar with my teeth or behind my back. Don't have access to WiFi to watch your videos as of late (3rd world problems) tisk tisk
I'm from Vermont. Therefore, I could visit his grave many times. But graves are sad. lol.I think music is the new poetry, but the feelings are conveyed more in music, whilst you must make your own background music and feelings out of poetry.
You definitely should check out his grave! It's such an old cemetery, many of the graves are from the early 1700s. Bennington overall was kind of underwhelming though. I love Vermont, though I'm most familiar with Montpelier. Great town.
Song of Myself, I, II, VI & LII Walt Whitman, 1819 - 1892 I I Celebrate myself, and sing myself, And what I assume you shall assume, For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you. I loafe and invite my soul, I lean and loafe at my ease observing a spear of summer grass. My tongue, every atom of my blood, form’d from this soil, this air, Born here of parents born here from parents the same, and their parents the same, I, now thirty-seven years old in perfect health begin, Hoping to cease not till death. Creeds and schools in abeyance, Retiring back a while sufficed at what they are, but never forgotten, I harbor for good or bad, I permit to speak at every hazard, Nature without check with original energy. II Houses and rooms are full of perfumes.... the shelves are crowded with perfumes, I breathe the fragrance myself, and know it and like it, The distillation would intoxicate me also, but I shall not let it. The atmosphere is not a perfume.... it has no taste of the distillation.... it is odorless, It is for my mouth forever.... I am in love with it, I will go to the bank by the wood and become undisguised and naked, I am mad for it to be in contact with me. The smoke of my own breath, Echoes, ripples, and buzzed whispers.... loveroot, silkthread, crotch and vine, My respiration and inspiration.... the beating of my heart.... the passing of blood and air through my lungs, The sniff of green leaves and dry leaves, and of the shore and darkcolored sea-rocks, and of hay in the barn, The sound of the belched words of my voice.... words loosed to the eddies of the wind, A few light kisses.... a few embraces.... reaching around of arms, The play of shine and shade on the trees as the supple boughs wag, The delight alone or in the rush of the streets, or along the fields and hill-sides, The feeling of health.... the full-noon trill.... the song of me rising from bed and meeting the sun. Have you reckoned a thousand acres much? Have you reckoned the earth much? Have you practiced so long to learn to read? Have you felt so proud to get at the meaning of poems? Stop this day and night with me and you shall possess the origin of all poems, You shall possess the good of the earth and sun.... there are millions of suns left, You shall no longer take things at second or third hand.... nor look through the eyes of the dead, nor feed on the spectres in books, You shall not look through my eyes either, nor take things from me, You shall listen to all sides and filter them from yourself. VI A child said What is the grass? fetching it to me with full hands; How could I answer the child? I do not know what it is any more than he. I guess it must be the flag of my disposition, out of hopeful green stuff woven. Or I guess if is the handkerchief of the Lord, A scented gift and remembrancer designedly dropt, Bearing the owner’s name someway in the corners, that we may see and remark, and say Whose? Or I guess the grass is itself a child, the produced babe of the vegetation. Or I guess it is a uniform hieroglyphic, And it means, Sprouting alike in broad zones and narrow zones, Growing among black folks as among white, Kanuck, Tuckahoe, Congressman, Cuff, I give them the same, I receive then the same. And now it seems to me the beautiful uncut hair of graves. Tenderly will I use you curling grass, It may be you transpire from the breasts of young men, It may be you are from old people, or from offspring taken, It may be if I had known them I would have loved them, soon out of their mother’s laps, And here you are the mothers’ laps. This grass is very dark to be from the white heads of old mothers, Darker than the colorless beards of old men, Dark to come from under the faint red roofs of mouths. O I perceive after all so many uttering tongues, And I perceive they do not come from the roofs of mouths for nothing. I wish I could translate the hints about the dead young men and women, And the hints about old men and mothers, and the offspring taken soon out of their laps. What do you think has become of the young and old men? And what do you think has become of the women and children? They are alive and well somewhere, The smallest sprout shows there is really no death, And if ever there was it led forward life, and does not wait at the end to arrest it, And ceas’d the moment life appear’d. All goes onward and outward, nothing collapses, And to die is different from what any one supposed, and luckier. LII The spotted hawk swoops by and accuses me, he complains of my gab and my loitering. I too am not a bit tamed, I too am untranslatable, I sound my barbaric yawp over the roofs of the world. The last scud of day holds back for me, It flings my likeness after the rest and true as any on the shadow’d wilds, It coaxes me to the vapor and the dusk. I depart as air, I shake my white locks at the runaway sun, I effuse my flesh in eddies, and drift it in lacy jags. I bequeath myself to the dirt to grow from the grass I love, If you want me again look for me under your boot-soles. You will hardly know who I am or what I mean, But I shall be good health to you nevertheless, And filter and fibre your blood. Failing to fetch me at first keep encouraged, Missing me one place search another, I stop somewhere waiting for you.
Another reason: I met an elderly man at a party when i had recited a poem, and he recited one, and we kept going back and forth with this. It turned out he had escaped from a concentration camp in Poland as a small boy. He had had to run/walk alone many miles across snowy fields to try to find safety. He said he recited every poem he knew to keep his spirits up.
Wow, what an amazing experience you had meeting him. Thanks for sharing that.
This was great, thanks, I been tryin to find out about "good ways to memorize things" for a while now, and I think this has helped. You ever tried - Yiyevi Ponevi Approach - (just google it ) ? Ive heard some great things about it and my cousin got excellent success with it.
Candice, I'm from Poland and I have to say that German concentration camps wasn't in Poland, but in General Government (in a German zone of occupation established after the invasion of Poland by Nazi Germany).
Wow so wholesome... :)
I knew a former POW who, as a young man in a POW camp, kept his and his fellow prisoners' spirits up by singing all the hundreds of church hymns he had memorized throughout his every Sunday churchgoing childhood. Everyone who could sing or recite anything pitched in.
Musicians who play by heart are reciting a different kind of poetry.
When I was younger I had my favorite poem by Edgar Allan Poe memorized, but I've long since lost it. I also had many scriptures memorized. You've inspired me again, thank you!
Yes, poetry can be very moving. Also, they can be deeply defining and personal. My favorite poems since my youth:
“Do not walk in front of me
I may not follow
Do not walk behind me
I may not lead
Just walk beside me
And be my friend”
~Albert Camus
Also Love, What It Is by Robert Herrick:
Love is a circle,
that doth restless move
In the same sweet eternity
of Love.
💞
I think the first one‘s sweet
This is a lovely idea. I've considered memorizing some of my favourite poems before, particularly after learning that my grandfather who's in his mid-80s can still recite from memory a poem that moved him deeply when he was young.
Dang FJ; I like Robert Frost too! "...two roads diverged in a wood and I, I took the one less traveled by and that has made all the difference."
Frank James is speaking the Truth.
In the 15 years of teaching in rural, northern California (Yuba county), I have required ALL of my students to memorize 15 poems throughout the school year. All must copy them as I have them typed into their own Composition Books. The types I use are Lyrics, Sonnets and Ballads. I have a variety of ELLs as well as low level readers (as low as 2nd grade!!) in my 8th grade English classes. With the rare occasion, an overwhelming majority of my students do what I require and raise their confidence and IQ ability. We feed into one high school in the district and I follow my students' progress. On average (I am one of 3 8th grade teachers in English), I double the percentage of graduating seniors as compared to my peers. I get and I collect letters and emails thanking me for making them memorize, recite and copy these poems. The overwhelming majority of my students who graduate from HS are first timers in their families and some continue on in college or university. I am a published poet and playwright. I have everything memorized that I require my students to do. I brought Poetry Out Loud to the twin county area (Yuba and Sutter) 12 years ago as a Board member of the Yuba-Sutter Arts Council.
Why the long-windedness? Because it doesn't require a service club sponsorship, a go fund me, a rich aunt, a MacArthur Genius Grant, or some special skill. We all can do this and we all can bring literacy and thoughtfulness back to popular culture.
The poems in order of memorization: The Eagle, The Wind (James Reeves), Catch a Little Rhyme, Miller's End, The Blind Men and the Elephant, from R & J, Act 1, scene 5, lines 95-109 (boys are Romeo and girls are Juliet), Love at Sea, Fire and Ice, The New Colossus, 3 by Dickinson, On First Looking into Chapman's Homer, Annabelle Lee, Jabberwocky.
Each one has lessons and quizzes (they copy my Poetic Terms for Noetic Worms in their CBs, and some have artwork assignments or group presentations for extra credit. I thread Figurative Language throughout the school year. I have found it makes for better critical thinkers and writers on the other assignments. Jonathan Kinsman.
It is really impressive seeing somebody who still cares about poetry. This is getting better and better.
It's a good idea! I thought you were going to recite a poem for us in this video.
I was, and then I chickened out.
:( ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Oh but check out my new video, you shamed me into it.
Awesome!
Yes. Most of the first five books of the Bible was spoken word knowledge until it was written down. And in Native American, aboriginal, and various other nomadic cultures, everything was initially oral-auditory.
Poetry and the biblical mystical writings are absolutely exquisite and interesting. So much depth; often multilayered even when it seems like it's oversimplified. Reading, and writing, either, adds interest, absolutely.
I’m into Russian literature. Alexander Solzhenitsyn is my favorite author. I’m always quoting items from his writings. Even just to myself. Another great video Frank.
very well said. as a 17 yrs old, I am in love with reading and understanding poetry. And now, guess what, I am going to memorize my fav poems. thank you soo much.
I have been to Johnny Cash’s grave in Henderson, TN. Not that I made a pilgrimage there or anything-it’s just a friend of mine’s parents lived in the subdivision right next to it so we walked over. It is so simple and unassuming despite him being an absolute music legend. He is surrounded by average Joes and the only thing remarkable about his resting place is that there is a tree that broke through the pavement and started growing right in the middle of the sidewalk by it. It is really cool how nature finds a way. Also, fans around the would leave letters and trinkets on that very plain and average-looking graveside of his.
*Edit to add I just looked up the gravesite and it appears they’ve built it up a little more than it was when I visited it 15 yrs ago but it is still pretty unassuming for a music legend’s final resting place.
Hey Frank, I know this video is 4 years old, but I just recently discovered your channel. I enjoy it very much! Just wanted to say, when I was in high school, we had to memorize a lot of stuff. Multiplication tables, The Bill of Rights, The Gettysburg Address, just to name a few. Love the channel, Thank you!
2004... old days. Chicago has a few lines, filled with simple pleasures 😎 goes back a bit further 🤩 you’re a sensitive soul and I love that you bring that to your channel! I am an old soul glad to see your keeping it alive 🙏🏼 Namaste
Here in Russia memorizing poetry is a must, you just not simply know Pushkin, you actually do know his poems by heart.
Good to know. Russia always used to have a reputation for being a country that valued great literature. Glad to know that's still part of the culture.
I paint, I write poetry, I'm an infj (is there a connection there?) But I can't memorize even my own poetry the way I wish I could. How can I improve my memory?
This is a great topic. I’m fascinated by the idea of 19th century families spending the evening in the back parlor, entertaining each other. I have a few poems memorized. Two are actually by Frost. Have you seen the movie about Keats, “Bright Star”? Keats is a guest in a home and the hostess asks him to recite one of his own poems. Encouraging more people to memorize poems is great. I had been working on memorizing “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud” by Wordsworth but I had actually forgotten about that project. I should get back to it, thanks!
You've inspired me to memorize poetry. Thank you.
Memorizing songs from musicals is more my thing. Especially since I'm going to take a leap one day & audition for community theater. I'm also learning other genres. I've never broke into song on a first date. That might be a little bit much compared to just reciting a poem.
“What?! You ~egg~!” *stabs him*
I love poetry. Just got my own copy of Leaves of Grass and have been holding off starting into it because I want to devote a lot of time to really sink into it. Not easy when you have life issues stressing you out and are already reading about six other books. 😬 Memorization can be wonderful. I was watching a show the other day and there was an older gentleman that was showing off his gardens and he quietly recited a poem about the Autumn of Life. The way he recited it from memory gave me chills.
Does memorising music count? Cos I’m pretty good at that
I memorized “Marky, Ricky, Danny, Terry, Mikey, Davey, Timmy, Tommy, Joey, Robby, Johnny and Brian”. Not much value in it but fun.
😂 Brilliant
I write my own poetry and memorise it to perform it so I think I'm doing okay :3
Oh you're killing it, my friend.
That's cool! Do you have a TH-cam channel? Would love to hear your poems.
Me too! I'd love to hear yours.
Yes, I AM from the Old School.....very, very Ancient. I would have enjoyed this video more if it was recorded in evening lighting, and if you would have selected one of your favorite poems and read it to us. Which would mean you would have had to of followed your own advice and memorized it because it is very hard to actually see and read poems in romantic lighting. :) True.
I learned a Robert Frost poem to recite by heart while playing my harp. The Birthplace. I even performed it on stage! This is a great idea for everyone. I'm going to learn more. We memorized Abe Lincoln's "Four Score and Seven Years Ago..." piece in elementary school. I still remember most of it.
Nice. It makes you feel cultured, doesn't it, to be able to pull out these things!
That's all great and swell, but I know a lot of poems and rarely tell people, because... Why would I just randomly just start citing Shakespeare?!
"Heyy! How was your day?!"
"When in disgrace with fortune and mens eyes, I all alone beweep my outcast state...!"
You memorize poems? My grandpa (who was an INTP) used to recite poems 😊 To be honest with you, I can’t always feel a connection to the poems I read. I love Emily Dickinson the most. Perhaps because I understand her words on a deeper level. I will leave a poem in continuation. Who knows? Perhaps you will read the comment with the poem and feel inspired. It is by Fernando Pessoa. I have read it recently and even done an illustration on it. Here goes:
To see the fields and the river
It isn't enough to open the window.
To see the trees and the flowers
It isn't enough not to be blind.
It is also necessary to have no philosophy.
With philosophy there are no trees, just ideas.
There is only each one of us, like a cave.
There is only a shut window, and the whole world outside,
And a dream of what could be seen if the window were opened,
Which is never what is seen when the window is opened.
When I was younger, I had extreme social anxiety. It was debilitating and I hated it. I knew in my mind that my fear and anxiety weren't rational, but I had no coping skills to help. I love poetry, singing, dancing, and the few times I acted in skits for my youth group were exhilarating.... So, I decided to audition for my local community theatres summer musical. Truly one of the best decisions of my life. I was forced to stand in front of an audience and give them my best while they judged me. At first the stage fright was gripping... But I forced myself to get out there night after night. I was committed and other people depended on me to play my part, no matter how small. After that show I did another one, then another.
I still have social anxiety, but I know how to push past it now. Instead of my insecurities being a booming voice in the forefront of my mind, they are now mostly a tiny suggestive whisper way in the back. It's so freeing to be able to be myself(ish) and not be held back by all the "what ifs".
I guess that's my way of saying that I can monologue?
I'm a Portuguese speaker and I'm memorizing The Lusiads, every Portuguese speaker should do it
My favorite poet is Lana Del Rey. I know she's a songwriter but... girl can write
In this regard I discovered against all odds I have a gift for memorizing poetry...my name is James Shirley...there was a poet called the same...
I love it! You are so refreshing! I feel connected to your ideas. I will look for my favorite poet because I dont have one. I'll start with the one you mentioned.
I'm a delivery driver, and I memorize poetry to help the boredom. Sleep is important! If you work at memorizing something, you'll find that you know it better after a nap or a night's sleep!
The only stuff i can memorize are music lyrics. Stupid ones especially. But when i try memorizing something important, my brain shuts off.
Music is easier to memorize because it activates more parts of the brain than just reading, so this is a common thing. I find it easier, too. 😊
💗 yes yes yes 🌆
HERE, HERE!
The Road Not Taken..I've always wished to memorize.
Wisława Szymborska - polish poet. i recommend her sensitivity to my fellow INFJS. With love.
I haven't memorized poetry but memorizing my sister's phone number saved me from a very expensive Uber. I had a rollover accident at night in the middle of nowhere, 130 miles away from home. My phone flew out of one of the shattered windows. My friend tried calling it but we couldn't find it as it was on vibrate 😒 . My passengers were taken to the hospital before I tried calling my sister. A state trooper showed up and gave me a ride to the hospital and he let me use his phone to call my sister to pick us up from the hospital. 🙂
*If* you are going to recite poetry on a date...1) Always lead with a intro to the poem which means maybe even asking if they would want to hear some... you can't just burst into it. *This way you likely won't creep them out, you asked for permission* 2) Give the title and the author before starting 3) know the guidelines/rules to reciting poems ... it's not as simple as just memorizing them. And then as long as the poem fits the occasion, why not? EDIT: Probably not on the first date and when alone and in private too.
Otherwise yeah you could creep them out or at least make an awkward moment.
I used to not be able to write at all. I was TERRIBLE at writing and English. I couldn't even pronounce English well but maybe because of Ne, I wrote a poem in fifth grade for a science project that got state wide recognition. I wrote a TON of poems as it was really all I could write well and my teachers would ask me to emulate all types of poets with poetry....I have piles and piles of poetry I wrote when I was little. So I was known to be constantly writing them for others and then others would write them for me.... So my point is I went through a BUNCH of awkward moments of guys just bursting out in front of a whole crowd with their poetry for their love for me and it was AWKWARD especially since I am on the asexual spectrum namely Demi, the chances that I liked them back was ZERO most likely. I did find it sweet and endearing but did they have to do it in public? I much appreciated the ones that would do it in private. I am assuming though on a date at least there is some interest amongst the two, but I wouldn't do it on a first date and not where others could over hear. idk just my experienced two cents. Poetry is like music although not music. Proper time, place and Rhythm to it are required for the right effect.
Frank some very real things have happened that I can't forget. And I find myself just wanting to be sarcastic...so I have had to look at myself!!! Hahahaha. Then I think maybe sarcasm is the best thing...I think you understand this. If you win what are you going to do?? Put that little trophy on your mantle? HAHAHA. Because I still think you have something to prove. What do you have to prove Frank? I question this whole comment and think it might be meaningless but you know I'm scared to write comments to you. I realized confessing my insecurities and shying away from the challenge is actually the best thing I could do!! (But what will I think tomorrow?) I won't forget the real things...I won't forget
I actually had that assignment in school, to recite a bit of Shakespeare. In a class of 30, I couldn’t remember the poem. It’s not that I didn’t want to, it’s because it was really hard for me and I didn’t want to mess up in front of my peers. I did a written alternate assignment instead and when someone asked why I didn’t have to do my part. I was so embarrassed. The teacher said I had an alternate assignment and everyone was so mad at me. It’s not like Shakespeare is in the common tongue, you know? You have to throw away what you know about grammar and speaking and learn a new language almost. In short, I really hate olde English. 😓
Well, I can memorize things and then after months or years I forget them. It always happens :/
Oh haiku haiku, why don't they like you(me)?
Creeping u fj while trying to finish my masters thesis i am poet it is important 2 me u should check out my first fav spoken word artist anis mojgani really breathes life into his writing and he is all around angel of human. His ted talk called ‘equal parts science and magic’ saved me once. U a mystic boi i think u would appreciate ok tysm love u bye
The Guest House
This being human is a guest house.
Every morning a new arrival.
A joy, a depression, a meanness,
some momentary awareness comes
as an unexpected visitor.
Welcome and entertain them all!
Even if they are a crowd of sorrows,
who violently sweep your house
empty of its furniture,
still, treat each guest honorably.
He may be clearing you out
for some new delight.
The dark thought, the shame, the malice.
meet them at the door laughing and invite them in.
Be grateful for whatever comes.
because each has been sent
as a guide from beyond.
- Jellaludin Rumi,
translation by Coleman Barks
You’re so snazzy...I enjoy your presence and your mind-full expressions.💗✌🏼
Clicked on this video thinking I've finally found a quality chanal on youtube....then i checked out you page.... Wtf man, what happend.
we gave you a chance... to water the plants... we didn't mean that way... now zip up your pants. Not as good as Robert Frost, but not bad
The first poem I had to memorize was O captain My captain, in 5th grade. I still remember all of it.
Growing up I loved poetry and reciting things, still do. My brother and I have always had this joke where if we find something in an odd place eg. mug, we go on making a 'who's mug is this, I think I know. The sink is in the kitchen though'... 'he will not see me sipping it, or washing it real slow'
Have you read any Jack Gilbert? He's my favorite poet. I've read "A Brief for the Defense" and "Say You Love Me" so many times I almost have them memorized.
I don’t think I could memorize poetry because i feel like i wouldn’t do it justice. Plus, I’m fairly familiar with Spanish poetry but I’m not very familiar with English poetry in general. If anything, I found “Bright Star” by John Keats to be very insightful for such a simple direct message. John Donnes “The Flea” was funny to me because I knew a little bit about his “womanizing” background so it’s pretty interesting to think his poetry was the original flirting! Overall, I’ve found Shakespeare to be more varied in topics when it comes to his poetry, whether its insights about the self or a lover. I think this is why most people automatically think of Shakespeare when it comes to poetry and prose. Any poem by Pablo Neruda is beautiful and romantic (provided that you like romance and can find a translation or read Spanish lol).
PWhile I enjoy poetry I think I find prose/literature more interesting, and sometimes you find that much of the language used in prose can be just as insightful as poetry, combined with the context that builds up throughout the story. I really enjoy reading Haruki Murakami, particularly the Wind-Up Bird Chronicle, because the writing reflects so much insight about characters and emotions in a very raw manner. I also think Yasunari Kawabata’s Snow Country has a lot of poetic language and themes about relationships in general. Finally, Osamu Dazai’s No Longer Human is one of my favorites because it’s one of those rare books that has so much rawness that it makes me want to cry. That along with the language just makes you an emotional roller coaster. I’m sorry I’m rambling on about prose, but I really think that if poetry is not your thing, being able to discuss (probably not memorize unless you’re that amazing haha) prose and be exposed to different ways of expressing emotions can make you very interesting provided you even like poetic language to begin with. And I’m just very passionate about literature in general 😂😂😂
Many thanks, I been tryin to find out about "how to memorize fast and effectively" for a while now, and I think this has helped. You ever tried - Yiyevi Ponevi Approach - (Have a quick look on google cant remember the place now ) ? Ive heard some interesting things about it and my co-worker got great success with it.
That’s very astute advice for everyone. I think poetry not only can feed one’s soul, but can make them more conscious of life. My favorite class was A.P. English Literature & Composition, mainly for the poetry. I thought I would share one of my favorites. Thank you for mentioning this as well, it’s inspired me to write more of my own poetry and reminded me why I love it so much.
“When, in disgrace with fortune and men’s eyes
I all alone beweep my outcaste state, and trouble deaf Heaven with my bootlegs cries, And look upon myself and curse my fate, Wishing me like to one more rich in hope, Featured like him, like him with friends possessed. Desiring this man’s art and that man’s scope with what I most enjoy contented least; Yet in these thoughts myself almost despising; Haply I think on thee; then my state, (Like to the lark at break of day arising from sullen earth) sings hymns at Heaven’s gate; For thy sweet love remembered such wealth brings. This then I scorn to change my state with kings.” ~Shakespeare
Poetry a dying art, that shall be resurrected.
WILD GEESE
You do not have to be good.
You do not have to walk on your knees
For a hundred miles through the desert, repenting.
You only have to let the soft animal of your body
love what it loves.
Tell me about despair, yours, and I will tell you mine.
Meanwhile the world goes on.
Meanwhile the sun and the clear pebbles of the rain
are moving across the landscapes,
over the prairies and the deep trees,
the mountains and the rivers.
Meanwhile the wild geese, high in the clean blue air,
are heading home again.
Whoever you are, no matter how lonely,
the world offers itself to your imagination,
calls to you like the wild geese, harsh and exciting -
over and over announcing your place
in the family of things.
MARY OLIVER
JaponicaGemini 💕
Pretty specific thing that I would of never thought about doing. Interesting, thanks bud!
nay, i was learning plenty of poems before, i never remember them now. people forget whatever they dont use in life. unless you are going to cite it to the every person you see in your life every day it's utterly useless
This is smart ☺ thank you
I am a bit older and went to school in a different country...we had to memorise poems in primary school...I think it helps your brain grow faster ☺
But I once randomly memorised the capitals of all of the United states...your country seems so organised on the map ☺
Ha ha, especially as you go farther west and they all become rectangles
I've just bought "The Wisdom of Insecurity" as you recomended in another video! Can't wait to read!
Hope you enjoy it :)
For pleasures are like poppy seeds; you seize the flower, its bloom is shed. Or like the snowfall in the river; a moment white, then gone forever.
The only poem I know by heart is a Shakespeare love sonnet. Like as the waves make toward the pebbled shore so do our minutes hasten to their end .....
I write my own Hiku poetry. Rain flows over the dome. Golden drops in the morning Swallowed by shadows. (Can’t even spell Hiku)
I live nostalgia, it's so interesting how people used live, what they wore ect, 1920's_1940's. Wow the cars back then. Thanks Frankie XX Poetry is sexy.
message to all: struggling to make yourself more interesting than you really are is pretty pretentious imo. just let things come natural, don't strain to seem like an interesting person. of course, if you actually like poetry and you really *want* to memorize poems, then good for you. but if you just want to be interesting and thus choose poems as a way to become interesting, then youre missing authenticity which is really not cool. its actually really disgusting. just be yourself.
There is nothing wrong with wanting to be interesting.
maybe i'm not making myself clear. you can want to be interesting - that's fine, but if youre taking up hobbies you don't care about at all for the sole purpose of coming across as interesting, then i'd say there's something wrong.
It is great to hear someone else who thinks that memorizing poetry is an important art! My new year's resolution this year was to memorize a new poem every week. I've already memorized 10 and I don't plan on slowing down anytime soon.
Anyone else doomed to be drab? Memorization is not a strong point for me. In fact, it's a huge struggle. In school I always had a difficult time with subjects that required memorization... history (dates, names, places) was the worst. It wasn't until I had high school world history teacher that was incredibly engaging and brought stories to life that I started doing a bit better with it. But memorizing just to memorize or test for? Brain dead. I'll remember the feeling and overall message but never the details.
Yes, that king of memorizing is horrifyingly boring. But memorization is an important skill. The best way i learn to do it was by learning music. There is a method to memorizing pieces that applies to all other subjects. It's also staves off dementia. Do it regularly, and your brain stays young.
Si
❤️
I remember loving The Road Not Taken back in elementary, and we discussed it in high school and my teacher was amazed because I was able to recite in class. I've forgotten some words now that I'm in college tho. But still I recite it when I comfort my confused friends with their life decisions and they would thank me for reciting that poem 😂
Check out Billy Collins if you don't know him already.
come to Australia.
I memorized (most of) e.e cummings's i carry your heart poem, and recited it to my lover. He loved it. :)
Totally. If our brains are capable of it, then it’s meant to happen. The Oral Tradition is everything. We are storytellers through and through. Memorising all of Hamlet’s speeches is a must for INFJs. And check out TS Eliot’s Four Quartets: Profound ...
Fire and Ice is a good one to memorize.
Retrograde
An ape swings low on a storm lashed tree
Bleeding from sting of alluvial sand
And strife from the wound of living
Man,
Far distant now from dank of jungle
Satiate, soft in a down filled room
Scorn the thought of a newer struggle
Points a flabby hand at doom
I wish I could give credit to the author, but I memorized this in 1992, and don't remember. I don't think he/she was very well known. Cheers.
*scorns
Start by reading poetry, then you'll unintentionally memorise them. Before you know it, you're writing your own collection. Freakish, but sweet-ish.
Robert Frost...yes!
Ocean Vuong if you're into a new age from a long lost era. Funny enough reciting poetry has cropped up for me a few times as something I'd like to be able to do ; aside from being able to play guitar with my teeth or behind my back.
Don't have access to WiFi to watch your videos as of late (3rd world problems) tisk tisk
Just go to Starbucks and get wifi there! Ha ha. More importantly you need the wifi to upload more videos yourself.
Robert Frost is awesome
I ❤ Robert Frost..grew up in New England
I love poetry and enjoy writing it. The only problem is that the only time I can write anything significantly deep is when I'm heartbroken.
I'm from Vermont. Therefore, I could visit his grave many times. But graves are sad. lol.I think music is the new poetry, but the feelings are conveyed more in music, whilst you must make your own background music and feelings out of poetry.
You definitely should check out his grave! It's such an old cemetery, many of the graves are from the early 1700s. Bennington overall was kind of underwhelming though. I love Vermont, though I'm most familiar with Montpelier. Great town.
Fences make good neighbors.😊
Song of Myself, I, II, VI & LII
Walt Whitman, 1819 - 1892
I
I Celebrate myself, and sing myself,
And what I assume you shall assume,
For every atom belonging to me as good belongs to you.
I loafe and invite my soul,
I lean and loafe at my ease observing a spear of summer grass.
My tongue, every atom of my blood, form’d from this soil, this air,
Born here of parents born here from parents the same, and their parents the same,
I, now thirty-seven years old in perfect health begin,
Hoping to cease not till death.
Creeds and schools in abeyance,
Retiring back a while sufficed at what they are, but never forgotten,
I harbor for good or bad, I permit to speak at every hazard,
Nature without check with original energy.
II
Houses and rooms are full of perfumes.... the shelves are crowded with perfumes,
I breathe the fragrance myself, and know it and like it,
The distillation would intoxicate me also, but I shall not let it.
The atmosphere is not a perfume.... it has no taste of the distillation.... it is odorless,
It is for my mouth forever.... I am in love with it,
I will go to the bank by the wood and become undisguised and naked,
I am mad for it to be in contact with me.
The smoke of my own breath,
Echoes, ripples, and buzzed whispers.... loveroot, silkthread, crotch and vine,
My respiration and inspiration.... the beating of my heart.... the passing of blood and air through my lungs,
The sniff of green leaves and dry leaves, and of the shore and darkcolored sea-rocks, and of hay in the barn,
The sound of the belched words of my voice.... words loosed to the eddies of the wind,
A few light kisses.... a few embraces.... reaching around of arms,
The play of shine and shade on the trees as the supple boughs wag,
The delight alone or in the rush of the streets, or along the fields and hill-sides,
The feeling of health.... the full-noon trill.... the song of me rising from bed and meeting the sun.
Have you reckoned a thousand acres much? Have you reckoned the earth much?
Have you practiced so long to learn to read?
Have you felt so proud to get at the meaning of poems?
Stop this day and night with me and you shall possess the origin of all poems,
You shall possess the good of the earth and sun.... there are millions of suns left,
You shall no longer take things at second or third hand.... nor look through the eyes of the dead, nor feed on the spectres in books,
You shall not look through my eyes either, nor take things from me,
You shall listen to all sides and filter them from yourself.
VI
A child said What is the grass? fetching it to me with full hands;
How could I answer the child? I do not know what it is any more than he.
I guess it must be the flag of my disposition, out of hopeful green stuff woven.
Or I guess if is the handkerchief of the Lord,
A scented gift and remembrancer designedly dropt,
Bearing the owner’s name someway in the corners, that we may see and remark, and say Whose?
Or I guess the grass is itself a child, the produced babe of the vegetation.
Or I guess it is a uniform hieroglyphic,
And it means, Sprouting alike in broad zones and narrow zones,
Growing among black folks as among white,
Kanuck, Tuckahoe, Congressman, Cuff, I give them the same, I receive then the same.
And now it seems to me the beautiful uncut hair of graves.
Tenderly will I use you curling grass,
It may be you transpire from the breasts of young men,
It may be you are from old people, or from offspring taken,
It may be if I had known them I would have loved them, soon out of their mother’s laps,
And here you are the mothers’ laps.
This grass is very dark to be from the white heads of old mothers,
Darker than the colorless beards of old men,
Dark to come from under the faint red roofs of mouths.
O I perceive after all so many uttering tongues,
And I perceive they do not come from the roofs of mouths for nothing.
I wish I could translate the hints about the dead young men and women,
And the hints about old men and mothers, and the offspring taken soon out of their laps.
What do you think has become of the young and old men?
And what do you think has become of the women and children?
They are alive and well somewhere,
The smallest sprout shows there is really no death,
And if ever there was it led forward life, and does not wait at the end to arrest it,
And ceas’d the moment life appear’d.
All goes onward and outward, nothing collapses,
And to die is different from what any one supposed, and luckier.
LII
The spotted hawk swoops by and accuses me, he complains of my gab and my loitering.
I too am not a bit tamed, I too am untranslatable,
I sound my barbaric yawp over the roofs of the world.
The last scud of day holds back for me,
It flings my likeness after the rest and true as any on the shadow’d wilds,
It coaxes me to the vapor and the dusk.
I depart as air, I shake my white locks at the runaway sun,
I effuse my flesh in eddies, and drift it in lacy jags.
I bequeath myself to the dirt to grow from the grass I love,
If you want me again look for me under your boot-soles.
You will hardly know who I am or what I mean,
But I shall be good health to you nevertheless,
And filter and fibre your blood.
Failing to fetch me at first keep encouraged,
Missing me one place search another,
I stop somewhere waiting for you.