The Value of Reading Poetry: Beyond the Instrumental

Is it useful to read poetry? This question often prompts debates about the practical applications and benefits of engaging with poetic works. Most would argue that poetry offers more than mere utility. It serves as a conduit for self-reflection, emotional insight, and linguistic mastery, enriching our lives in ways that go beyond the instrumental value of instrumental purpose.

Selfhood and the Electric Medium of Poetry

Pace Oscar Wilde, who famously stated that art is 'useless' as an agent of social change, I believe that reading poetry is a deeply personal and enriching pursuit. It requires a special ability to perceive language as something more than a static medium for the 1:1 communication of ideas. Poetry transforms words into an electrified medium, where their histories come alive and where language interacts in novel ways, redescribing reality.

When you read poetry, you get to see what language can reveal about the nature of our cognitive faculties. It can make you think thoughts you would never have had before, force you to question the laws of logic, and even 'tease us out of thought' as Keats might say. Reading poetry is not just about understanding the words on the page; it is about engaging with the emotions and ideas that they evoke.

Instrumental Value or Emotional Enjoyment?

Some might argue that the usefulness of reading poetry lies in its instrumental value. After all, it can hone your linguistic abilities and analytical thinking, skills that can be valuable in both corporate and academic settings. However, the true value of poetry lies in its ability to provide enjoyment, emotional depth, and a unique exploration of the human condition.

Reading poetry can be a deeply enjoyable and moving experience. It is a beneficial use of solitude, providing a break from the constant distractions of the modern world. It is not just a waste of time, nor should it be confined to mere intellectual exercises. Instead, it is a meaningful activity that can enrich our lives in profound ways.

Goals and Desired Ends

The question of whether reading poetry is useful often depends on your definition of 'usefulness.' Generally, usefulness implies instrumental capacity—something that can be employed to make some desired end easier to attain. This leads to the discussion of goals and desired ends.

If your goal is to 'make money,' then reading poetry might seem like an unnecessary luxury. However, if your goal is to live a life with less anxiety, to be able to communicate effectively, or to better understand and relate to others, then reading poetry becomes far more valuable. It can increase your linguistic abilities, enhance your analytical skills, and deepen your appreciation for the human condition.

The Humanist Perspective

The original purpose of a humanities-based education was to prepare individuals for public life, which requires effective communication and emotional intelligence. Many employers complain that new hires, even from elite academic institutions, struggle with communication. Reading poetry helps develop these skills by exposing you to different vocabulary, figurative language, and complex meanings.

Moreover, poetry allows you to explore powerful, often uncomfortable emotions that are generally repressed in American culture. It provides an opportunity to feel and explore these emotions in a safe and meaningful way, making it easier to relate to others in a genuine and empathetic manner.

Conclusion

In conclusion, reading poetry is not just a leisure activity; it is a valuable pursuit that enriches our lives in numerous ways. While it may not have a direct, instrumental purpose, it offers profound emotional and cognitive benefits. It is a valuable use of solitude, enhancing our communication skills and deepening our understanding of the human experience.

Keywords: poetry, instrumental value, emotional intelligence