Not Gonna Write Poems: The Book Inspires New Interest In Poetry

Twenty-three years down the line, since its inception in 1996, the United States National Poetry Month which held in April has continually been celebrated by educators all already the country, with the sole aim of infusing schools and communities with the power of verse.

Several times over the past century, poetry has suffered a sharp decline with its readership base every dwindling. However, rather than focus on the potential reasons why a large number of avid readers are turning away from it, it is best to ponder upon who or what is responsible for its current revival.

One of such authors is Mike Lee whose recent work is a must read for every fan of poetry in America. Titled Not Gonna Write Poems, and just as the title suggests, it is an exhilarating and humorous read, that’s bound to excite every reader.

When quizzed on why he chose such a genre, Lee noted that his background as a physician was a huge inspiration—being that laughter is a good medicine for the mind and body.

“So why did I write a book of funny poetry you ask? Well as the saying goes ‘Laughter is the best medicine,’” said Lee in an interview.

“Being a physician-poet, I know first-hand that whether you’re ill or depressed, you always feel better when you can smile and laugh. That’s what my book does…it’s my cure for sadness!”

Lee has been an avid lover of poems right from his childhood, citing Shel Silverstein his biggest inspiration in his journey to becoming an author.

“My family and I have always loved the poems/drawings of the famous poet/author Shel Silverstein. We often read his poems to our daughter before putting her to bed,” he noted.

“Finding out that Mr. Silverstein died in 1999 and that we would never be able to meet him, I decided in 2017 to try to emulate his witty, humorous style and began writing poems to entertain my family. So that’s how my poetry book began.”

While there would be plenty of poetry works on display during the National Poetry Month, Not Gonna Write Poems is unique not only in its title but in its humorous, entertaining and illustrious style.

“There are many poetry books of course out there but this book, unlike some poetry books, is not meant to be mushy, serious or sad.  NOT GONNA WRITE POEMS is meant to be fun and to entertain,” said Lee.

“My purpose in writing this book is make poetry enjoyable for all; I want children and their families to smile and laugh a lot when reading my book. Its whimsical style makes it great to read out loud.”

“Kids and their parents will love the poems since they deal with many topics they can relate to: Sleepovers, homework, the Boogey Monster and more.”

“Also, my poetry book has many funny drawings, done by myself and my 10-year-old daughter, that add to the humorous nature of the poems.”

In the past decade, youths of the society—also known as the Millennials—have begun embracing poetry, discovering new ways to increase its public relevancy.

Social media has been a powerful medium, from Instagram to Twitter and the publishing of slam poetry to poetry zines and comedic poetry, this has ensured poetry has risen from obscurity. Now, it’s making massive contributions to the current wave of social activism within the art community and the global community at large.

Now more valid that ever, Allen Ginsberg’s question of “when” — "America, when will you be angelic?” resonates more loudly.

For poets, educators, and all those desirous of agency, equality and social change there is the realization that poetry has no end-point. Therefore, no community or city or nation, can claim to have achieved perfection or absolution as the work is unending. With the release of creative poetry books such as Not Gonna Write Poems, it is evident that poetry never truly dies.

You can find out more about Dr. Michael A. Lee's book of poetry entitled  NOT GONNA WRITE POEMS on his website page, Mikeleethepoet.com.  

Sponsor Ads

• Ad Space Available - Rent it Now!

Report this Page

Created on May 20th 2019 20:51. Viewed 35,971 times.

Share on APSense

Comments