'What is the purpose of poetry? [Candidates <br />will be awarded up to 80% of the total marks <br />for this paper on the answer to <br />this question. Write on one side of the paper only <br />but with both frontal lobes; <br />hearts may be used in answers to this question.]' <br /> <br />After the two hours is up, hand in <br />a blank sheet; the examiner may sigh and smile. <br /> <br />Some sages say - those not affected <br />by some academic status to uphold - <br />(that pause, that look, which indicates, <br />it's not as simple as all that...) - <br />that it's the oldest-fashioned thing, <br />to melt the heart... <br /> <br />but today I'd say, well yes and no - <br />more like a key you turn and - whoosh! - <br />there cascades out, all that's in their heart, <br />all the vast all which they have to give; <br />and you stand aside, stunned and humble; <br />such a small key; such a vast world is there.<br /><br />Michael Shepherd<br /><br />http://www.poemhunter.com/poem/you-have-a-new-comment-about-your-poem/
