I think the reason her words speak so eloquently to so many is because of her plain language. As she said, she likes plain language. Poetry’s no fun when it’s so lofty and literary that you can’t understand it. I think it’s similar to why Shakespeare spoke to so many in his day and still does. (“Brevity is the wit of reason”).
When listening to Mary Oliver read her poems the other night, it was like listening to a warm conversation, both wild and deep — full of meaning in its blessedly simple language. (And her sense of humor was totally unexpected and totally cool).
Reading poetry and hearing it spoken are two different experiences. Having heard her read them, her poems spoke to me more clearly. I’ve read them, of course, but I’m lazy. I’d rather listen to her say the words. Straight, real and to the heart. Unpretentious.
I believe poetry is language meant to be spoken. Perhaps that’s why the expression “poets and troubadours” moves frequently through my consciousness lately.
** photo from Episcopal Diocese of Massachusetts
I’m so envious!
And now I really want to read a whole collection of her poems – having only read there here and there when they are quoted. The great thing about hearing someone read their work is that forever after , whatever you read by them, you hear their voice. ( My favourite for that has been Maya Angelou)
(Best wishes, Rhiannon from MB 🙂 )
There is nothing better than hearing someone speak their poetry ~ what a treat! so love her!