The Enigma of Poetry: Its Purpose and Versatility in Communication

To ask the purpose of poetry is akin to questioning the purpose of air, the sky, and even the humble cardboard, although the latter does have practical utility.

This query is elegantly addressed by two essays by Martin Heidegger, both luckily well-translated, titled 'The Origin of the Work of Art' and 'What Are Poets For', from his book 'Poetry, Language, Thought'. According to Heidegger, most poetry falls short because it lacks an understanding of what poetry truly is. True poets, such as Homer, Lady Murasaki Shikibu, Shakespeare, H?lderlin, and Rilke, engage in deep reflection and thought. Other poets, like W.S. Merwin, may be worthy of admission to this esteemed list. My own attempts aim to join them.

However, if one believes that the purpose of art is merely to express emotion, they are not in the same realm as great works of art. Great works of art undoubtedly convey emotions, but that is not their sole purpose. Poetry, much like other art forms, serves myriad purposes, from expressing emotions to entertaining the audience, reflecting culture, and preserving language and traditions.

Expressing Emotions and Ideas

The primary purpose of poetry is to provide a platform for emotional and intellectual expression. Poets craft lines that can express deep, complex emotions and ideas in a powerful and creative manner. It helps readers connect with profound feelings, reflect on life, and see the world from new perspectives. Through the use of rhythm, imagery, and language, poetry can inspire, comfort, and provoke thought.

Entertainment and Connection

While poets may speak directly, the act of poetry brings about a unique experience. People listen carefully, being entertained and moved by the words. The main purpose of poetry is to connect the audience with the poet's thoughts and feelings. It is not merely to bore or confuse the audience but to engage and enthral them.

Memory and Rhythm

Another aspect of poetry is its function as a mnemonic device. Rhyming verses can serve as memory aids. For example, the rhyme 'Thirty days hath September... ' is a common mnemonic device used to remember the number of days in each month. Just as poems like this help us remember, poetry in general can aid in retaining information and cultural knowledge.

Multifaceted Purposes of Poetry

The purpose of poetry is multifaceted and can vary greatly depending on the poet, the context, and the audience. Here are some of the key purposes of poetry:

Expression of Emotion: Poetry serves as a means for poets to express complex emotions and feelings that may be difficult to articulate in everyday language. Artistic Exploration: Poets use language creatively to explore ideas, themes, and concepts, pushing the boundaries of traditional expression. Cultural Reflection: Poetry can reflect societal values, beliefs, and issues, providing commentary on the human experience and fostering a sense of cultural identity. Aesthetic Pleasure: The musicality, rhythm, and imagery in poetry can provide aesthetic enjoyment, engaging readers and listeners on a sensory level. Connection and Communication: Poetry can create a sense of connection and communication between people, allowing readers to relate to shared experiences, emotions, or thoughts. Provocation and Insight: Many poems challenge readers to think critically or view the world from new perspectives, prompting reflection and deeper understanding. Preservation of Language and Tradition: Poetry can serve as a means to preserve language, history, and traditions, passing down stories and cultural heritage through generations.

Overall, poetry is a versatile form of art capable of resonating with individuals and communities on many levels, making it a powerful tool for communication and expression. It has the ability to evoke emotions, provoke thought, and connect people in profound ways.