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Issue 22, finding poetry in the everyday
Mike here, and this week, I want to talk about everyday poetry.
And if you’re thinking, I don’t know, poetry’s never been my thing, hear me out.
Poetry is just a fancy word for looking at things in a way that brings them to life. It’s that shift in perspective where ordinary stuff is brought to attention and given depth, maybe even a bit of humor. All through creativity, of course.
Poetry doesn’t just live in dusty book stores or flowery verses. It’s hidden in the little things — the half-smile of a stranger, or the way their scarf blows in the wind. The smell of ‘home’ that greets you as you enter. Or the slam of the door as you leave.
Everyday poetry is about noticing. We spend so much time speeding from one thing to the next that it’s easy to miss what’s right in front of us. But when we slow down, we start catching these perfect little moments.
To get you in that mindset, here are some things I loved discovering this week – I hope you like them too:
🕊️ More joy? More peace? More poetry.
This article takes a look at the subtle ways we can find poetry in our daily routines. It’s an easy read, full of reminders that even the quietest moments can have something to say. Check it out.
🍋 Even a lemon can be poetic – just read this one.
Haiku Fresh offer poetry engraved on fruit for an unexpected way to bring poetry into someone’s day. Next time you make someone a pack up, don’t forget to scribble a sonnet on their banana. Take a look here.
🚗 Vacuum cleaner / Ford Cortina, and other surprisingly satisfying rhymes.
Legendary punk poet John Cooper Clarke reads his down-to-earth love poem. If you’re an Arctic Monkeys fan, you might recognize it. It’s got charm, a touch of humor, and plenty of everyday references. Watch the video.
So, here’s my ask this week: start noticing the poetic bits in your day. Be curious about what’s around you. Hit reply to this email and tell me about something poetic you spot, or write your own haiku. I'll share my favorite next week.
And if you’re up for a challenge, try our Everyday Poetry practice below – it takes less than 5 minutes.
Catch you next week,
Mike
🤟