Poetry In Review

How can I sum up the my experience of contemporary American poetry in
one blog post? It is only possible to suggest how much this class has impacted my growth.
The main reason why the class was so effective is because it was taught by Courtney Lewis, who is my adviser, teacher, and friend forever. She deserves a lot of respect. Sometimes I feel like she is a social scientist because of how she studies her students so deeply. I expect she has learned as much from us as we have learned from her love and impressive knowledge of contemporary poetry.

I knew I could write decent poetry before this class but I never took the time to exercise it. Now I cherish my ability to write poetry like it is my greatest gift. Everyday I splurge poetry accompanied by drawings into my sketchbook. Before contemporary poetry all I had was visual literacy without the depth of poetic literacy. At the beginning of the class Mrs. Lewis told us the class expectations, which I thought were far-fetched, but my experience is that I have exceeded the original class expectations.

This class has guided my learning in all subjects. By drawing parallels between poetry and my other classes, Art (history and studio), Science, and Math, I have been able to learn and understand the significance of my education. While testing is not my forte, my drive to understand concepts helps me enjoy school. Sadly, I could not connect this class to my French studies.

The achievement I am most proud of is this blog. The class pushed me to design a blog that is functional while aesthetically pleasing. The marriage of functionality and aesthetics drives my artwork.
Because the blogs were assigned to teams, they encouraged us to have cooperative responsibility for each other's learning. My group dominated the score sheet when it came to blogs. We have almost 900 views over only three months. Thanks Jezza, Dylan, and Boaz! We have regular views for Sri-lanka, Canada, Germany, and Russia. Many other countries have visited our blog, which feels amazing. The blog will be a lasting testimony to the most interesting class of my senior year at Wyoming Seminary.

We studied poetry from the beginning of the 20th century till contemporary rap and poetry slams. The most memorable poets we studied were Walt Whitman, Amiri Baraka, and Gwendolyn Brooks.
My favourite poem of the class was "We Real Cool," because it relates to my temptations in many ways. I think it can be understood easily while it has great depth. My favourite performer is Saul Williams because his voice casts a indescribable spell over me.

Complex Poetry

To write poetry, imagination is needed. Good poetry also has a mathematical flow as well. Again it is the marriage of creativity and structure that produces strong work. As I have written before, this rule is not only applied in writing poetry.

To understand math, just as much imagination is needed as in writing poetry. Especially when dealing with imaginary numbers. A better term for imaginary numbers is “Complex Numbers” because in a sense all numbers are imagined. Numbers are contrived to relate tangible objects or phenomena with each other.



The special property of complex numbers is that no “Real Numbers” can be combined to create the imaginary component of a complex number.




A concrete example of complex numbers at work is in an electric circuit that contains an inductor. An inductor is a wire coil with electromagnetic properties, which is used in almost all electronic devices. The flowing current in a circuit can be described by a complex number. The electron flow in the wire can be understood with the real component of a complex number. The imaginary part refers to the magnetic field associated with the inductor. What you lose in electron current you gain in magnetic field and vice versa. When the electron current gets converted into magnetic field energy by the inductor, it is impossible to represent this phenomena with the same positive or negative numbers. Instead a new direction is needed. The new direction is called i for "imaginary". This new direction can also be positive or negative. In other words, the magnetic field can either be growing (the positive imaginary direction) or collapsing (the negative imaginary direction). As the magnetic field grows, it sucks energy from the circuit and stores it in a magnetic field. As the magnetic field collapses, energy is released back into the circuit. So the imaginary part of the complex number represents the quantity of magnetic field present as well as its dynamical state (positive or negative). This can be visualized on the complex number plane. The notation for a complex number is
x + i y.
Where x is the distance along the real axis, and y is the distance along the imaginary axis. So this number is some position in that 2-dimensional plane.

Both the real part and the imaginary parts of the complex number represent "real" quantities in the "real" world, which can be used for “real” applications.



In fact, complex numbers are used in countless technologies today. Some are...
Data encryption,
Wireless technologies,
And...
Poetry?

I attempted to use poetic devices to explain my knowledge of circuits to make it understandable. All good writing should have poetic devices to articulate its meaning. Even when describing scientific topics, there is an art to making it legible.

Everyday I leave Precalc in a mathematical mindset, which must evolve into a much more abstract mindset for Contemporary American Poetry. But for the last week I have found Precalc just as abstract as Poetry class. Through this blog I have managed to dig a deeper understanding in both classes. Thanks to Dr. Cooper for showing me the BBC podcast, which inspired this blog post.

The Heart of Humankind

Poetry is the keystone upon which all human advancements rest.




Every seed of a thought comes from language. Without language humans cannot communicate. Without communication there is no possibility for progress. The defining capability of humans, which makes us conscious of our significant life, is the ability to communicate through language. Poetry is the pinnacle of linguistic expression. Therefore, the most influential scientific discoveries to the deepest art projects start with a poetic seed of thought.

In this poetic exchange, two famous scientists, Richard Dawkins and Neil deGrasse Tyson, talk about the grand goals, limits and accomplishments of science.




Yet, it is difficult to imagine a successful conversation between a scientist and a poet. The two seem almost speak different languages. To the poet, the scientist seems literal minded with his head is buried in the ground of facts, incapable of understanding the true significance of what they research. To the scientist, the poet seems to have their head in the clouds, indulging in fantastic visions. The scientist worries that the poet might be and losing sight of the way things really are. But when the scientist and the poet do communicate with each other, together they make up for their downfalls and produce truly meaningful work.



An example of science, poetry and art working together is in the concept and construction of Cooper Union's “New Academic Building” in New York City. Along with its stunning aesthetic value, the building serves a functional purpose second to no other higher education institution. The poetic mission statement of Cooper Union, “For the Advancement of Art and Science,” is on full display with this structure. Art studios are on the same levels as engineering research labs, which encourage students to bounce ideas of each other. This inspires creativity whether it be inventing a new energy source or creating an artwork that will catch the attention of the world to promote this new energy source. Speaking of energy, the building has been awarded LEED Platinum status making it the most eco-friendly building in New York.



Innovations and artworks, which are based on strong poetic concepts, are the truly valuable projects.

Poetry and the Progress of Man

Is technological progress truly beneficial for the strength and sanity of the human race? Many poets, writers, and philosophers have grappled with the same question. The recent surge in mobile communication devices has changed how people observe and interact with the world. The Internet has revolutionized everything from the global economy, to our personal social life. Have we lost something? Can we continue to exist on such an artificial level? Throughout this article I will put these questions in perspective with poetic writing from two outstanding poets of the 20th century.


After reading an insightful essay by C.S. Lewis called “The Abolition of Man,” I understood the full depth of Amiri Baraka’s poem “In Memory of Radio.”

C.S. Lewis argues that that technological advances negatively influence the human race in terms of its “Power” and spirituality. To read the entire essay one must forgive his use of the word “Man” or “he” because he means humankind with these sexist terms. He uses three technological advances to illustrate his point, “the aeroplane, the wireless, and the contraceptive.” By wireless he means radio and not a cell phone. He writes that,

“Any or all of the three things I have mentioned can be withheld from some men by other men—by those who sell, or those who allow the sale, or those who own the sources of production, or those who make the goods. What we call Man's power is, in reality, a power possessed by some men which they may, or may not, allow other men to profit by. Again, as regards the powers manifested in the aeroplane or the wireless, Man is as much the patient or subject as the possessor, since he is the target both for bombs and for propaganda.”

Later he defends himself against the criticism that he is anti-science.

Nothing I can say will prevent some people from describing this lecture as an attack on science. I deny the charge, of course: and real Natural Philosophers (there are some now alive) will perceive that in defending value I defend the value of knowledge… I even suggest that from Science herself the cure might come.

To interpret the full meaning of what C.S. Lewis means one must think outside the box. He defends the value of knowledge, for example, understanding how a radio works has true value. To use the radio and take its function for granted without knowing how it works, the listener gives up their power to the few people who do understand how the radio works.

As Amiri Baraka mourns the fading appeal of radio, C.S. Lewis mourns the use of Science and technology to rob us from our natural Power to understand the world around us.

The Poetic Politician

Does poetry mix with politics or do they repel each other like oil and water?

Poetry can be the most influential form of language, infused with emotive power used in everyday speech to reinforce political discourse. Political ideas and platforms are communicated by way of the written word and public orations, just like poetry. Poetry is a tool that politicians use to sway public opinion on issues. Therefore in my opinion the most skillful politician is a masterful poet. Unfortunately many dictators gained their power through poetic persuasion. Just because a politician is a powerful poet does not mean they are a good politician.


Two Examples of famous politicians, who were also poets, are Pablo Neruda, and Robert Byrd. Pablo Neruda is one of the most famous poets of the 20th century. In 1971, he was awarded the Nobel Prize for literature. While he was first and foremost a poet, Neruda also was a senator for the Chilean Communist Party for the few years it was in power. Robert Byrd is best known for his role as senator of West Virginia. In fact he was the longest serving senator in United States history. One of the reasons he was so loved was because he insisted on the occasional poetry recital in congress to lighten (or highten) the atmosphere. An opinion they shared is that all poetry is political in one way or another.

Robert Frost recited a poem at John F. Kennedy’s election. Frost had written a poem specially for the occasson called "Dedication" He began to recite it but given his advanced age and the glare of the sun on the sheet of paper prevented him to complete it. Instead he recited one entitled "The Gift Outright" from memory: After this recital all following inaugurations have had a poetry recital. This is a respected tradition, which now serves an important purpose in American history.

The only political position that poets can hold is the role of poet laureate. The most influential poets are chosen as laureates to acknowledge the importance of poetry in politics. While laureates are not required to write on political issues, they have the ability to criticize without being unpatriotic. As respected poets they often give the everyday public opinion more weight. This gives the poets undeniable political influence.
Even with overwhelming proof that poetry is a vital component to healthy politics there is a counter argument to my opinion. Many poets, Like Wyatt Prunty have denied poetry’s political influence, because, as he claims, “Political language must be simplified for the common audience. Poetry cannot be simplified to this degree. Poetry, it its fullest, transcends political factions, and expresses the universal human condition.” My retort is that government is created to serve the human condition. Therefore, politics depends on poetry to express what humans need from their government.

Sources:

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=1241067

http://www.georgiaencyclopedia.org/nge/Article.jsp?id=h-1257

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pablo_Neruda

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Byrd

Age Bridge Built From Poetry

Today, in the Wyoming Seminary Kirby library, one of the most amazing collaboration classes of all time took place. Because it was grandparent’s day, many students had their grandparents sit in on our poetry class. Soon, they became like elderly members of our class as we started to share poetry. The grandparents clapped for, and commented on our poetry. When the “write a poem about family” assignment was given the elderly joined in on the collaboration. It was a beautiful moment of bridging generations in the most poetic way possible.

Boaz and I were truly feeling in the mood to blurt out our stream of consciousness because we have been both getting into the poetry and way of life of the Beat poets. The two of us improvised this little poem that encapsulates many of the themes that were discussed today.


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Without family, without purpose,
If purpose is family, Father is determination,
And Mother is reason,
Brother is forever, Sister is too.
Together we are more than purpose,
Without we are worthless
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Boaz and I read this allowed at the same time to illustrate the point of unity in a family. After presenting this poem we both felt like brothers with each other.

Everyone stepped out of the library today with more than they had bargained for. Some with a lyrical beef stew dinner, and others, like myself, with a unfamiliar yet awe inspiring emotional experience.

Today I found a video that gives insight into the minds of our grandparents. How do they interpret our music?

Growing My Shoulders To Fit Chicago's

People have very opinionated views when it comes to Chicago. Some say the city is too cold and remote, while others say it is teaming with life and opportunity. As a college bound senior Chicago is important to me because it is home to the School of the Arts Institute of Chicago, known as (SAIC). Even though SAIC is recognized as one of the most influential art schools in the world, I found myself too intimidated by the tough reputation of Chicago to even think of applying there.

Last week, two major events changed that.

First, when I read Carl Sandburg's famous poem “Chicago” I found that the roughness came with an important appeal. Just as Sandburg wrote, “They tell me you are wicked and I believe them,” I also believed that Chicago is a wicked city. As the close of the poem nears, the redeeming factors of Chicago's wickedness are revealed.

Bragging and laughing that under his wrist is the pulse.
and under his ribs the heart of the people,
Laughing!
Laughing the stormy, husky, brawling laughter of
Youth, half-naked, sweating, proud to be Hog
Butcher, Tool Maker, Stacker of Wheat, Player with
Railroads and Freight Handler to the Nation.

Chicago is the heart of of American values. Since I am also a proud American, this poem struck a chord in me that made me start to think about Chicago in a more positive light.

Only two days after reading and discussing “Chicago,” Wyoming Seminary received a surprise visit from none other than an admissions representative from SAIC. He gave the most impressive presentation for a college I have ever seen. Not because he was very talented but because he had an infinite amount of amazing features to reveal about both SAIC and Chicago itself. Some of the most fascinating points he talked about were that SAIC is a museum school with the second largest Art museum in the US. Only the metropolitan museum of art tops it. SAIC has some of the most notable Alumni of any school I have seen. To name only a few Walt Disney, Georgia O'Keeffe, and Orson Welles all graduated from SAIC.

The representative was so impressed with my portfolio that he pre-accepted it for admission. He also assured me that I can get a hefty scholarship with a portfolio as strong as mine. The School of the Arts Institute of Chicago is now my first choice. This year I must work hard to grow my shoulders to fit in the “City of the Big Shoulders.”

Here is an interesting project by one on the students.


Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org
http://carl-sandburg.com/chicago.htm
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d1VB1vA-UsI

Make all Writing Poetic

The name of this class we are taking is "Contemporary American Poetry."
As students we should live up to this name by writing an original poem on our blog each week. As group members we can comment on these poems with positive criticism.

Now here is my poem of the week.

Zen, And the Art Of Longboarding

Since I can remember,
I have wanted to be able to fly.
Every night my dreams take me on a flight through the universe.
When I wake up,
the reality of gravity always brings me down.

Three years ago,
I found a way fly in my waking life.

I fly on my longboard.

When I step onto its Arched bamboo body,
My weight is in equilibrium between gravity,
and the flexibility of the longboard.
This flexibility provides an illusion of levitation that I crave.

All I need now is Smooth pavement,
With a varied incline.
Once the board and I hit a smooth road,
Together we become a Frictionless,
fearless,
ferocious force

No place provides such ideal conditions for longboarding as Central Park.
Its wide roads with immaculate tarmac,
Its winding pathways through serene gardens,
Which slope up and down making perfect flight paths.
Central park is already a magical place,
Central Park plus a loaded longboard equals a transcendental experience.

Whenever I get the chance,
I travel to New York City,
and forget about the public transportation.
Instead I longboard everywhere,
And plan my route around a scenic ride through Central Park.

Now that you understand how much I enjoy longboarding, I will describe to you the experience of scooting through central park.






I jump onto the board after it slaps the tarmac,
Instantly, gravity accelerates me into a new state of mind

The sharp carves I make feel like the beating of my wings.
Crowds are my turbulence, which I weave through.
As I zip by,
Their pointing and staring only take me higher.

I reach climax of my flight as I hug a turn at almost 40 mph,
judging by the cars that I am overtaking

The decent of my flight comes with a climbing hill.
As I slow down,
The whistling of the wind fades away into the bustling sounds of new york city.

Once again the struggle against gravity starts.
I kick, kick, kick up the hill till I reach the top.

Even though the push uphill is many times longer than the downhill ride,
Once I start down the
blur,
wind,
and the rumble of speed,
slows down my perception so that the quick drop feels longer than the push uphill.


Through longboarding,
my lifetime dream of flying has been met.
Although it is on of the most dangerous sports,
Longboarding will always be a thrill of mine.

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