Poetry is sometimes viewed as a frivolous and outdated art form, but this perspective misses several of poetry’s essential benefits. The study of poetry promotes precision and clarity of thought, improves writing ability and reading comprehension, encourages patience and diligence, and shows students how to thrive both within strict guidelines and in a state of responsible freedom. Additionally, of course, the study of poetry fosters ingenuity and teaches students to appreciate and create literary and philosophical beauty. Above all, the study of poetry provokes a pursuit of truth.

Poetry is much more demanding than other forms of writing. Because poetry is meant to be contemplated line by line, each word must be perfect and each sentence must be carefully considered. Hence, the meticulous exercise of crafting poems forces students to evaluate their writing assiduously and in detail. Poetry gracefully but mightily illustrates the power of the written word, which highlights the importance of writing skills, and practicing poetry simultaneously reveals how a student of poetry – of any age – can enhance her own abilities. In order to cultivate strong writing skills, a sound foundation must be established, and poetry focuses on the most basic elements of writing: word choice, the flow of a sentence, and overall meaning.

As a result of observing the masters’ work, studying the skills needed to create poetry, and comparing these lessons with his own poems, the student naturally learns to improve his work. The meticulous art of poetry also emphasizes the value of revision; students of poetry learn to perfect their work as well as to cherish excellence and to invest the time and effort necessary to achieve it.

The careful consideration of how to communicate clearly encourages a distinct clarity of thought. An idea can be presented compellingly only if it is first formed specifically and then stated lucidly. Because poetry insists on a fascinating and fastidious presentation, a student learns to refine and clarify her own thoughts. Poetry allows great creativity, but this openness is closely coupled with a self-imposed consciousness of restriction. Through studying and writing traditional forms of poems (such as sonnets and villanelles), a student learns to express his unique perspective and original ideas within a strictly controlled structure. Through studying and writing free-form poems (such as blank verse and free verse), a student learns to regulate her own stylistic structure in a purposeful way. These lessons have significant applications to each student’s lifestyle and personal character; becoming a successful adult requires both the capacity to flourish while following others’ rules and the ability to make conscious, responsible decisions independently.

Students should also read ancient, classic, and modern poems, and they will be required to examine and evaluate them carefully. Because poetry is often dense and its meaning is often difficult to decipher, reading comprehension skills are greatly increased by learning to analyze, understand, and appreciate poetry.

In sum, do not so quickly abandon the glorious ancient art of intellect, truth, and beauty. Nothing can sharpen your wits and skills so precisely and pleasantly, and few endeavors can improve your real-world competence and even business acumen so efficiently.