I’ve loved “Sympathy” ever since reading Maya Angelou’s autobiography, and wow, what loveliness lies in these other poems. “Silence” especially. It warms my heart to hear how he started so young, just like my little son did. Six-year-olds have very big hearts and very clear poetic thoughts about things. Thank you Dick! 💛
Yeah - he has some pretty well-known poems. I didn't know Angelou had quoted this one. Such a banger! Hehe - yeah, kids have a way with words and emotions huh! They cut right to the core.
I live in Dayton, Dick. Paul Laurence Dunbar is well known here. Nevertheless, I watched a PBS special about him the same night you published this. He was a prolific writer, having written some of his poems and novels while he battled tuberculosis and died six years after his diagnosis at the age of 33. All he wanted was to be known as a poet and a writer rather than being characterized as a black poet/writer. That didn’t happen during his lifetime in the states or during a prolonged stay in Europe, but we know now that he was a great poet and writer. I love the poems you shared and your response!
It's interesting how Maya Angelou's I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings was inspired by the line in "Sympathy." And how she got the title of her book The Heart of a Woman from the poem (and book) by Georgia Douglas Johnson. Which is why it's great that you're highlighting poets of the past.
His poems are captivating, and I love your tribute to him.
Yeah, he's such a stellar poet. Awww thanks Margaret - super appreciate it!
I’ve loved “Sympathy” ever since reading Maya Angelou’s autobiography, and wow, what loveliness lies in these other poems. “Silence” especially. It warms my heart to hear how he started so young, just like my little son did. Six-year-olds have very big hearts and very clear poetic thoughts about things. Thank you Dick! 💛
Yeah - he has some pretty well-known poems. I didn't know Angelou had quoted this one. Such a banger! Hehe - yeah, kids have a way with words and emotions huh! They cut right to the core.
I live in Dayton, Dick. Paul Laurence Dunbar is well known here. Nevertheless, I watched a PBS special about him the same night you published this. He was a prolific writer, having written some of his poems and novels while he battled tuberculosis and died six years after his diagnosis at the age of 33. All he wanted was to be known as a poet and a writer rather than being characterized as a black poet/writer. That didn’t happen during his lifetime in the states or during a prolonged stay in Europe, but we know now that he was a great poet and writer. I love the poems you shared and your response!
It's interesting how Maya Angelou's I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings was inspired by the line in "Sympathy." And how she got the title of her book The Heart of a Woman from the poem (and book) by Georgia Douglas Johnson. Which is why it's great that you're highlighting poets of the past.
Thank you for bringing Dunbar to my attention.
Such a pleasure Nick - glad you enjoyed them!
I may have to go to the Dunbar House in Dayton when I am there next.
Ohhhh - that sounds like such a fun time! Take photos if you do - I'd love to see it.
Keep you posted