The Power of Poetry: Meaning Beyond Religion

This chapter delves into the intricate relationship between poetry and the human quest for meaning, especially for those outside traditional religious frameworks. It examines how poetry enriches rituals and offers insights into complex emotions, using works like Muriel Rukeyser's 'Islands' and Mary Oliver's 'Wild Geese' to illustrate themes of connection and existence. The discussion highlights poetry's transformative power, serving as a bridge between the absurdity of life and the beauty of shared human experiences.