Abram Van Engen on why POETRY can moves us deeply?
by Victor_Mtz · 3 things on Twos
- Poetry has the ability to evoke deep emotional and spiritual responses. Abram Van Engen explains that poetry often resonates with us because it captures experiences and emotions in a way that transcends ordinary language. Poetry’s unique use of metaphors, rhythms, and sound patterns creates a kind of experience that allows readers to connect with ideas, feelings, and truths in a profound way.
- Van Engen also emphasizes that poetry engages both the intellect and the emotions, allowing readers to slow down and contemplate deeper meanings. He suggests that poetry moves us because it opens up space for reflection, making familiar things feel new and helping us to pay attention to aspects of life that might otherwise go unnoticed. Additionally, he highlights the spiritual aspect of poetry, particularly for Christians, noting how biblical poetry, like the Psalms, moves believers by helping them connect with God and reflect on life’s most significant moments.
- In sum, we are moved by poetry because it speaks to our human experience on multiple levels—emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually—offering a depth of meaning that other forms of language often can’t achieve.