Why bother being a Poet?

Featured Poem

I have held the belief for many years that Art is the mirror, the watchdog, and the critic of society.  I truly believe this; but others might argue that being a mirror does no good, and just being critical does not change things.  Especially if you don’t offer solutions with your criticism.

In part Bagman, this month’s featured poem, explores the position of the poet (or artist) in our society.  In the poem the poet observes the Bagman, but his observing is close to voyeurism.  The poet’s stance is implicit - critical of a wealthy society which has such people living in it.  Surely, we should be supporting people into a better life? 

The implicit question posed is Does the poet’s observation make any difference – wouldn’t it be better if the poet got involved in politics or supporting charities?  There is a more uncomfortable question, too, Is the poet living off the back of The Bagman’s poverty?  Which would make the poet some kind of parasite.

As a writer of plays and poems, I believe art does make an important difference.  We aim to give pleasure, of course, but without something to say underpinning our work, the work is likely to slide into saccharine sentimentality.  I am all too conscious that I may be living off the backs of others, and I do try to avoid it.

What I never try to avoid is causing offense.  Offense is a valuable tool in the artist’s toolbox. But perhaps this is a separate discussion for another day. 

Reading

I have discovered the delights of the Nick Herron Slow Horses books.  I have read the first, Slow Horses and am really keen to move on to the next one.

Writing

I continue to work with the composer of our music play; nearly have the whole set of songs finished.  It is a long process, but Tom is a delight to work with.

I have finished writing my Ukraine based Tuesday poems for now.  I may go back to some more later.  The horror of Putin’s war beggars belief.  I have written a poem about borders; it is called Drawn Up Lines.  I am also working on a fairly large set of connected poems.   I am not saying what they are about but all will be revealed in due course . . . If I am convinced, they are worthwhile.