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[jjhunter]

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Activism and Poetry

[alee_grrl]

One of the aspects of poetry that I love is its ability to encourage change. Poetry is in many ways a distilled form of expression. Ideas and emotions are boiled down to their essence and left to steep in the mind of the reader. Words are chosen and placed carefully in hopes that they will resonate with the reader long after the poem has been read. Activists of various stripes have long used poetry to influence and persuade, to illustrate their plight and dream of possible futures. Some great examples of such poets and their works can be found here. I chose one of my more recent poems for today's post. It developed from two thought paths: a general frustration with people who insist that words are not hurtful, and the realization that other's words only really have the power we give them. Sometimes it is necessary to turn understanding and perception on their heads.

Word Ownership

I.

Words: small units of language.
Tiny tools, multifaceted and complex
Strung together, used to concentrate the abstract.
Concentration allows manipulation.

Words have an accepted general meaning-
Amorphous and fluid, affected by time and culture.

Like all tools words have only
The morality given through use.
Vocal scalpels may heal or hurt
Shaped by speaker’s intent and
Listener’s understanding.

II.

You spit the word fat like it leaves a bad taste.
I free the word of venom and spite and endeavor to
Wear my size with grace. I am who I am;
I reclaim the word rather than spit in your face.

You sneer as you call me a geek or a nerd.
I grin and say it with pride.
This is who I am and I’m proud of that fact.
It is you who I pity inside.

So many words to label me, box me and
Cut me down; I will not be quantified.

I own the words I speak,
I own the words I hear.

Say what you will, I’ll hear it as I choose.