"And How Should I Begin?"

Tonight JDubbs and I were watching Jeopardy and the category was "Poetic Questions."  I perked right up, being an English teacher on hiatus, and got the first one right off the bat.  To be fair, it was a bit of a gimme (something like, His poem, "Song of Myself" blah  blah blah).  Then the second question appeared and I was practically hopping up and down.  It was about one of my most favorite poems ever, "The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock" and the answer was the poet's name.  I know the answer.  I love this poem.  I did a 45 minute lesson on this poem for my Secondary Methods class in college.  I can quote a line or two on command.  I remember where I was the first time I read it and the flash of realization that this poem was life-altering.  But...the poet's name?  His name is....well, of course, I know it...it's....it's... Shit.

In case you're dying to know, the poet is T.S. Elliot.  Not my favorite poet, not my favorite style, but I just love this poem and it's many, many layers and brilliant use of literary devices.  So how could I forget it?  How could it have been so long since I read it?  How have I forgotten this major component of who makes me who I am?

Oh, right.  I've been busy.

But too busy for poetry?  Too busy for Prufrock?  Too busy to use my brain in a non-mommy/crafty/bloggy way?  To remember that there is more in the world that I love than what and who reside in this house?

"I have seen the moment of my greatness flicker,

And I have seen the eternal Footman hold my coat, and snicker,

And in short, I was afraid."

This is an awakening for me.  If I have to make it a monthly part of the blog in order to make sure that I do it, I will.  I will read poetry.  I will use the part of my brain that loves literature and the contemplation and reflection that comes with it, and I will make time for it.  Well, not until after Lent because I gave up reading for pleasure for Lent, but soon I will make time.  Not a book report or a book club; just reveling in words and their beautiful meaning.  I will purposefully make a change in my routine.

"Do I dare

Disturb the universe?...

And should I then presume?

And how should I begin?"

I guess I just began.  I am presuming.  Whether you like it or not, here it comes.  Intellectual thought.  Coming to a blog near you.  Bring it, Prufrock.