Learn a Little Poem by Heart
- January 27, 2012 |
- by Laurie David
“Every day take time to start to learn a little poem by heart.” — Mary Ann Hoberman , Children’s Poet Laureate 2008
Once upon not so long ago, children used to memorize poetry as a regular part of their schooling. Today, we memorize very little, not even phone numbers! But if you want to instill a little self esteem in your child (and yourself!), nothing works faster than a few memorized lines recited at the kitchen table for all to enjoy.
We think this ritual is so wonderful, we spread poems throughout our book and in the chapter “Read Around the Table.” Poets Maya Angelou and Billy Collins talk about the beauty and strength poetry brings to our lives.
So dust off your book of poetry, pick up some anthologies from the library, or go to one of the wonderful poetry site that are out there (PoetryFoundation.org) and recite tonight!
Dust of Snow by Robert Frost
The way a crow
Shook down on me
The dust of snow
From a hemlock tree
Has given my heart
A change of mood
And saved some part
Of a day I had rued.
[…] Laurie wrote last Friday, memorizing and reciting a poem for your loved ones during family dinner is a long-treasured and, […]