Students often have such a lofty idea of what a poem is, and I want them to realize … - Yusef Komunyakaa

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My mom used to say that I became a fighter and a scrapper and a tough guy to protect who I am at my core.

Yusef Komunyakaa

Students often have such a lofty idea of what a poem is, and I want them to realize that their own lives are where the poetry comes from. The most important things are to respect the language; to know the classical rules, even if only to break them; and to be prepared to edit, to revise, to shape.

Ideas, Important, Know, Poetry, Revise, Shapes

Same Author Quotes

I am this space my body believes in.

Believe, Believes, Body, Space

I originally wanted to embrace the imagery and forthrightness of rap music. There are some interesting, dynamic voices in rap. But I find most of it irresponsible in its overt violence and commercialization of anger. As artists, we believe we can will action through language. If that's the case, we have to take responsibility for what we say.

Believe, Interesting, Language, Rap, Responsibility

I knew life Began where I stood in the dark, Looking out into the light.

Dark, Hope, Light, Looking

My great-grandfather Melvin had been a carpenter - so was my father - and they taught me the value of tools: saws, hammers, chisels, files and rulers. It all dealt with conciseness and precision. It eliminated guesswork. One has to know his tools, so he doesn't work against himself.

Chisels, Conciseness, Father, Hammers, Precision, Tools

Tonight I feel the stars are out to use me for target practice.

Practice, Stars, Target, Tonight