Kevin, yes I know what I'm saying isn't new, I'm just suggesting that poetry might suit our particular needs at this point in time. When people are spoiled with constant spectacular imagery, their inclination to use their own creative abilities is reduced. I'm sure this has a knock on effect in terms of society, because imagination is required to solve problems, and there are many of those.
Poems can act as imaginative exercises for both reader and writer, and yes, be enjoyable too - I don't think there's a contradiction here, in the same way that there is no contradiction between playing football being fun and improving physical fitness. I certainly don't avoid things that I know are good for me unless I've a mental block from having them rammed down my throat or presented in an unappealing way, as I hear poetry is in schools. I agree that there's a tendency for people to refuse to do what they're told to do; this is power play, like the infant who's favourite word is 'no'. So I don't advocate a 'national we must all read poetry or else' week.
However, I do think that while telling people poetry is good for them can be counter productive, it still IS good for them, or at least has the potential to be.
Alex
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