Poetry

Of Bondage
by Earl Bergland, 1971

As the autumn leaves desire the sensuous winds
To whirl them into ecstasy,
So I desire you.

As the mountain stream needs boulders
For music in its throat, it’s dancing,
So I need you.

As the storm embraces thunder and lightening
To create its majesty and omnipotence,
So I embrace you.

As the forest seeks the mountains
To anchor its roots and soften buffeting storms,
So I seek you.

As the night implores the stars
For its brilliance, serenity,
So I implore you.

What is there of me inspired not by you?
I owe an allegiance repaid in kind.

Why Poetry? Poems are written by people who are too lazy to write a book. Most people who write poetry would do more good for the world by growing flowers or painting old barns. But we need to have patience because many young poets just need a few years of practicing as do musicians.
What are the three basic requirements for a quality poem?
A. The topic must be very important.
B. The poet must express thoughts with clarity.
C. The poem must create a dramatic impact (create an emotional feeling) in reader.
Is poetry a waste of time? That is a tough question. We can wonder the same thing about fishing or watching a football game. A poem provides the poet with a means of expressing ideas and feelings by a very personal means. Playing basket ball or cooking is also a means of personal expression.
What kind of an attitude should we have about reading poetry? Imagine sitting in a park on a spring day listening to your friend discuss ideas with you. Poets love waterfalls and country fried chicken.