The list in the blog post referenced here is a wonderful and persuasive set of arguments in favor of writing poetry, by a self-proclaimed “shameless and impassioned advocate for the poetic voice as an integral player in an integrated life”. Kelly Belmonte is the founder and Chief Muse of All Nine, and, in her words, “offers just a few of the best reasons to give a go at writing a poem every now and then”. Read them here: 12 Radical Reasons to Write Poetry.

My own “radical reason” to write (poetry, essays, blog posts) is quite simple: the words dwell within me, but have a life of their own and must be released. What’s yours?
When people are unwilling to listen,
When the mob is against my belief,
When I am pushing against the currents
Then usually
An empty flyleaf lends me an ear.
My simple reason to write,
A necessity to breathe.
Thank you for the response poem; “an empty flyleaf lends me an ear” being a wonderful way to capture that strong need to express thoughts and feelings. Your poetry blog is excellent.
Thank you Ma’am.