Term time is fast approaching, and I’m itching to get started with the second year of my MA in Creative Writing.

First year flew by, as they said it would. I gave it my all, and remained curious and grateful to be in a position where I could spend time working with my creative muscle, feeling challenged and inspired.

This poem by Elizabeth Alexander appeared in my reading list for the year ahead, and I was so taken with it I wanted to share it on the blog.

(The Poetry Foundation, Alexander, E. (accessed online) www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/53005/ars-poetica-100-i-believe, accessed 16th June 2019)

I particularly enjoy the enjambment in this piece and her attention to the poetic line, which is beautifully considered. It pulls you through the piece carefully, but not so much that you run out of breath.

I feel there is a lovely light sense of humour in this piece, and the poem exudes a wonderful, natural tone of voice.

For me, the pinnacle is perhaps the ending.

Landing on a bold, reflective question is masterful, and it certainly had me reflecting all-day-long.

and are we not of interest to each other?

Elizabeth Alexander

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What do you think? I’d love to hear your thoughts on this poem! Let me know in the comments.