Poetry, Peace, and Unity
As World Poetry Day approaches on the 21st of March, we take a moment to reflect on the power of poetry to inspire peace and unity in a world plagued by conflict and discord.
Denise Levertov once called out to poets, urging them to imagine peace as a counterbalance to the pervasive imagery of disaster. Her words resonate with this year’s theme for World Poetry Day: “Poetry for Peace and Unity”. Poets like Levertov and Gregory Corso challenge us to rethink our glorification of war and violence, highlighting the absurdity and cruelty of conflict.
While politicians talk of rearmament and military strategies, the toll of war continues to rise. Yet, poets around the world persist in advocating for peace. On World Poetry Day, we celebrate the role of art, particularly poetry, in promoting peace and re-humanization.
Even Pope Francis, from his hospital bed, appeals for disarmament – not just of weapons, but of words and minds. He recognizes the transformative power of language, calling for unity and peace in a world torn apart by division.
“Peace is not something you fight for.
It is something you live, and share, and nurture.” – Thomas Merton
Poetry as a Universal Language
Words have the power to shape a peaceful future for humanity. Whether through quiet sonnets or powerful verses demanding justice, poetry speaks to our hearts and invites us to dream of a world united in peace. Religious poetry, from the Psalms to the works of Rumi, has long fostered a sense of solidarity and divine connection among people.
Saint Francis of Assisi penned the beloved Prayer for Peace, embodying Christian unity and human reconciliation. Similarly, Mahmoud Darwish used his poetry to speak of suffering and resistance, urging us to think of others and seek peace amidst conflict.
War poets like Wilfred Owen and Pablo Neruda remind us of the harsh realities of violence, urging us to confront the bloodshed and horror that war brings.
A Call to Action
Let us continue to write, speak, and share poetry as a means of building peace and sharing truth. In a world where the noise of weapons threatens to drown out the call for peace, poetry remains a vital force. Our words have the power to shape our reality, so let us choose them wisely as we strive for a more peaceful world. As Rumi said, “Whatever you love, you are.” Let us choose love, unity, and peace through our words and actions.
