A few weeks ago, Jama introduced us to Charles Ghigna's new book, Dear Poet: Notes To A Young Writer. After reading Jama's post, I couldn't wait to get my hands on the book. I quickly ordered it. It arrived this week, and this book did not disappoint!
Through a series of poetic reflections, Charles shares a bounty of crafty wisdom, inspiration, and thoughts about what exactly poetry is. The book is short. The first time I read it, it took me all of 10 minutes, but you will want to read this book over and over and over again. And don't let the title fool you. It's my only complaint about the book. It's not just for young writers. Every poetry lover will resonate with and learn from this tiny but powerful treasure of a book.
And now I'll share a few of the treasures with you.
VIII.
by Charles Ghigna
Style is not
how you
write.
It is how
you do not
write
like
anyone
else.
XXIII.
by Charles Ghigna
A poem
is a whisper, a shout,
thoughts turned inside out.
A poem
is a laugh, a sigh,
an echo passing by.
A poem
is a rhythm, a rhyme,
a moment caught in time.
A poem
is a moon, a star,
a glimpse of who you are.
I really couldn't pick favorites. Every page is just as good as the last. This book would make a great stocking stuffer for your favorite poetry lover.
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ooooooooh. I love the idea of being a young poet. Or, picking up a book for a young poet that speaks to me too. What an enticing review. That poem on style. Wow! I want to share this with students today!
ReplyDeleteI would love to hear how it goes with your students, Linda. I hope you'll share about it in an upcoming poetry friday post.
Deletea moon, a star, a glimpse of who you are... true true true! Thank you for sharing! xo
ReplyDeleteIsn't that a gorgeous line, Irene? There are so many delicious morsels in this book.
DeleteI agree -- it's impossible to pick a favorite, as the book is full of gems. His short poems pack a powerful punch. And yes, this book isn't just for "young" poets . . .
ReplyDeleteTotally agree, Jama!
DeleteI shared this book a few weeks ago, too, Kimberly. It is a beauty to savor for sure. I'm happy to read your response about it.
ReplyDeleteAh, yes you did too, Linda! It's so nice reading each other's takes on the book and celebrating it.
DeleteI love the selections you shared, Kimberly. As the official stocking stuffer in our house, I'm always on the lookout for one or two things for myself, so thanks for the terrific idea!
ReplyDeleteGlad to help with your Christmas list, Michelle. You'll love it :)
DeleteThese poems are treasures! Thank you for giving us another peek into this book.
ReplyDeleteFor the young and young at heart. :) Thanks for sharing these, Kimberly!
ReplyDeleteThis is what I loved most of all:
ReplyDelete"A poem
is a laugh, a sigh,
an echo passing by."
That is beautiful. Thanks for sharing!
Charles' work is just so thoughtful and delicate. I love this book!
ReplyDeleteimberly, I am so glad that you shared snippets of Charles' book. I loved the two you shared!
ReplyDelete