Thought for the Week: Be patterns

Ian Kirk-Smith reflects on inspirational words and figures

by Ian Kirk-Smith 6th September 2013

Poets are not absolutely necessary to the efficient operation of society. Trains will run on time without them. But poets can provide insights into the human condition. They can find images and symbols appropriate to our predicament. They can articulate the defining narratives of our age and our culture. They can create possibilities out of ambiguity, conflict and confusion. They can suggest a humane vision of how we can deal with each other. They can remind us of what is best in ourselves.