Our team continues to be amazed by the eloquence and power of National Youth Poet Laureate Amanda Gorman. Yesterday’s Super Bowl recitation of her original poem “Chorus of the Captains” was a beautiful tribute to three heroes and their contributions during the pandemic.
She first awed us with her poem "The Hill We Climb" at the inauguration of President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. And now after commanding one of the biggest stages in America by performing poetry for the masses, we know this won't be the last we see from this remarkable young woman.
Amanda Gorman’s poetry got us thinking about some of our favorite poems — read on to discover team member favorites. Perhaps one (or more!) of our favorites will inspire you too!
Lauren Berg: My favorite poem is “The Leash” by Ada Limón. Every time I read this poem, I am amazed by the range of experiences and emotions she captures in such a short space. The hope Limón finds despite all the violence in the world makes me feel hopeful too.
Alicia DeMatteo: I’m going a little off script and would like to share “Sometimes it Snows in April” by Prince as my favorite “poem.” While the overwhelming feeling from this song is sadness and grief, I enjoy the moments that show a contrasting love and joy and remind me of the harmony between these emotions.
Mary Lilja: Denise Levertov’s poem, “The Avowal,” was sent to me by a dear friend at the beginning of my nine-month cancer journey. It was a lifeline to me during the darkest of days. I keep this poem tucked into my journal and always find it to be uplifting and reassuring.
Kate Lilja Lohnes: I love the poem “Invitation” by Mary Oliver. It’s a beautiful reminder to slow down and be present in the world around us. Stop. Notice. It just might change your life!
Erica Winegar: John Updike's poem, "December," comes to mind as a favorite. A friend of mine introduced me to this poem through his bi-annual poetry distribution among friends and family, and it's one I tend to think about in winter, especially now as my kids love to frolic and play outside.
