(book reflections)

I just started a new class after being out of school for the past five years. I have not found a rhythm of writing the blog posts when much of my mind energy goes to studying… so, for today, I will simply share a short reflection on a quote I read today.

“The best thing a poem or poetry can do is to give you permission.”

Jeff Duetsch, In Praise of Good Bookstores

Poetry is an expression from the poet to the world. The benefits go far beyond the one who holds the pen, it is a connection to the receiver as well. Almost like a crafted letter to a friend.

When I consume poetry, I easily acknowledge the beautiful words and move on. There is something transcendent when poetry becomes a connection to my present condition. Poetry with connection becomes written on our hearts and can define seasons. While many poets could be mentioned in relation to this quote, the Psalms stand out in my mind as poetry which gives permission. Even centuries after the Psalms are written, in a different cultural and historical context, the Psalms are still connecting to our present condition as humans.

I relate when the psalmists lament, grieve, and confront injustices – and, I feel invited to enter into those spaces myself. I celebrate and rejoice with the psalms of ascent and take comfort when it is written that God deeply loves us. Poetry is an art which can transcend time and connect to our present moment. We are given permission to cry, to sing, to experience the wide range of emotions.

I am grateful God thought to include poetry in the written word He gave to us. He gives us permission, just like Jeff Deutsch wrote. 1 Peter 5:7 says it a bit more explicitly, “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”