Poetry Unbound

Ernesto Cardenal — Give Ear to My Words (Psalm 5)

21 snips
Jan 13, 2025
Explore the profound connection between poetry and the human quest for recognition amidst political turmoil. Examine how Ernesto Cardenal's work emphasizes justice and the powerful role of language. Discover the intertwining of faith and politics through Cardenal's life as a poet and priest. Delve into the comforting strength found in prayer and poetry during times of injustice, reflecting our collective yearning for hope and resistance against oppression.
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INSIGHT

Poetry as a Listener

  • Pádraig Ó Tuama recounts how Carol Ann Duffy found solace in poetry's listening quality.
  • He emphasizes the hope for reciprocal listening between writer and words on the page.
INSIGHT

Words of Violence

  • Cardinal's poem, like the Psalms, directly addresses perceived enemies and desired justice.
  • The poem explores the theme of hearing and the ways language can be used for violence.
INSIGHT

Ambivalence of Protection

  • The poem's final stanza creates ambiguity about who is surrounded by tanks.
  • This symbolizes a powerful vision of peace, not weak-willed, but actively combating evil.
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