9/8 Post

History and poetry do indeed create one another. Poetry mostly comes from the history that has gone on in cultures, countries, communities, and individual lives'. I believe that is where most poets gain their strength and insight from; history. There is never a moment where the two topics do not intersect or can go unrelated. They are very much so related and dependent on what resources are given by history. A Prayer for My Friend, As Bombs Fall on Beirut by Phoebe Rusch is a great example of history and poetry because one would have to know the history of Beirut or have a gist of what goes on in other countries to understand why the poem was written. It is obvious that history inspired this poem and can offer additional referentials for the reader to enjoy. My favorite part of the poem is in the last stanza,

I pray for your family and all families
who have never known true peace,
whose every glass of milk is delicious.
for all people suspended
between night and morning. I pray
that as you breathe and I breathe,
our breaths coincide
and yours will slow so you may sleep.
I pray that you will take tiny risks:
step out on the balcony, feel the breeze
on your face. Go back inside quickly
knowing there are angels
at your heels.

The poem almost seems more like a biblical scripture than a poem, it made me think of religion and the significance one's religion may have on morals and values in life. That stand out of choice of words made this poem special and that much more important for readers to come across.

- Dorothy