April: National Poetry Month

02 Apr 2020

April: National Poetry Month

April is National Poetry Month and is a time when I spotlight poetry as I teach. This year adjustments have to be made, but that doesn’t stop me from sharing a few of my favorite poems. The first one on my list is from Emily Dickinson.

“Hope” is the thing with feathers – (314)

by EMILY DICKINSON

“Hope” is the thing with feathers –
That perches in the soul –
And sings the tune without the words –
And never stops – at all –

And sweetest – in the Gale – is heard –
And sore must be the storm –
That could abash the little Bird
That kept so many warm –

I’ve heard it in the chillest land –
And on the strangest Sea –
Yet – never – in Extremity,
It asked a crumb – of me.

Hope is just that: small, yet resilient, able to stay strong even in a tempest.

We are definitely in a tempest these days, and I pray that little voice of hope remains strong and provides the sweetness and surety that it will be heard.

Take care–
Pam

Posted in American poets, Poetry, Reflections, teaching and tagged favorite poems, hope, Poetry

10 thoughts on “April: National Poetry Month”

Heidi Viars on April 2, 2020 at 5:17 pm said:

Thanks for this piece of hope. How can I pray for you?

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- Pam Webb on April 2, 2020 at 5:24 pm said:
  
  That’s so kind! I’m hoping to finally kick the bronchitis that’s been lingering since January. What prayers do you have?
  
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  - Heidi Viars on April 2, 2020 at 5:57 pm said:
    
    I will pray for you, Pam! For strong lungs and and steadfast heart… wisdom and encouragement!
    Pray I will be able to keep the thing perched on the soul and make it sing those wordless songs! Five peeps at home counting on it to stay right up there and not lose its balance.
  - Pam Webb on April 2, 2020 at 6:32 pm said:
    
    Thank you, Heidi. And I pray that those in your sphere hear that hopeful song in your heart. Take care!
Sarah Loudin Thomas on April 3, 2020 at 1:19 pm said:

Thanks for reminding me it’s National Poetry Month! Gotta work that into the blog. Wendell Berry is my favorite poet, but I love so many . . .

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- Pam Webb on April 3, 2020 at 1:26 pm said:
  
  I will have to refresh my Wendell Berry.
  
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Jilanne Hoffmann on April 4, 2020 at 9:45 am said:

I love NPM when all the poets come out to play. Thanks for this lovely poem!

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- Pam Webb on April 4, 2020 at 3:12 pm said:
  
  That’s what is lovely about poetry, how it can provide the right words for a given occasion.
  
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Eli Pacheco on April 7, 2020 at 11:45 am said:

Beautiful! I really liked this. I have decided to have a go at a Haiku or 10 on Thursday for the #AtoZChallenge. You’ll have to let me know how I do!

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- Pam Webb on April 7, 2020 at 1:33 pm said:
  
  Have you checked out today’s post about my debut picture book? It fits today’s situation of hoping we will see our loved ones again someday.
  
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