01 Why I started reading poetry?
Throughout the course of human history, the art of poetic expression has been a fundamental aspect of our existence. From the earliest civilizations to the modern age, individuals have used poetry as a medium to convey their thoughts, emotions, and experiences.
Poetry's existence predates the advent of written records, and this oral tradition has played a crucial role in the preservation of cultural heritage across various civilizations. In ancient Hindu civilization, for instance, the Vedas, a collection of sacred texts dating back to around 1500 BCE, were initially transmitted orally through generations. These hymns and verses were chanted and sung, and their rhythmic and melodic qualities made them easier to memorize and pass down. Similarly, in ancient Greece, the epic poems of Homer, "The Iliad" and "The Odyssey," were recited orally by bards before being transcribed into written form. These poems, which are among the foundational works of Western literature, were part of an oral tradition that existed long before the advent of writing. These examples demonstrate how poetry not only predated written records but also played a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and literary identities of major civilizations.
Whether through epic tales, romantic sonnets, or lyrical verses, poetry has transcended time and culture, leaving an indelible mark on our collective consciousness.
In the intricate tapestry of Hindu cosmology, a fascinating belief posits that the entire universe is, in essence, a cosmic song. Rooted in the philosophy of certain Hindu sects, this concept holds that the universe's vibrational essence is akin to the rhythmic resonance of a divine melody. Central to this belief is the sacred syllable "OM" (Aum), which is considered the primordial sound of the universe. In the Hindu tradition, chanting OM is believed to connect individuals with the cosmic vibrations, providing a profound spiritual experience. This idea finds a parallel in the ancient Greek philosophy of the Pythagoreans, who viewed music not only as an art form but also as a means of purifying the soul. For the Pythagoreans, the harmony of the cosmos could be understood through numerical relationships, and the pursuit of musical harmony was a path toward spiritual enlightenment. Both the Hindu and Pythagorean perspectives highlight a shared belief in the cosmic significance of sound and music, emphasizing the universal resonance that transcends cultural and temporal boundaries.
Embarking on my quest to unravel the depths of ancient Indian culture, I've come to appreciate the enigmatic nature of its information, often concealed within the captivating verses of poetry. Recognizing that developing a poetic sensibility is essential to decoding these hidden meanings, I've taken my initial steps by immersing myself in the works of Emily Dickinson and Edgar Allan Poe. Through Dickinson's exploration of inner landscapes and Poe's mastery of the macabre, I've begun to understand the intricate tapestry of human emotion and the art of representation through song. These Western poetic traditions serve as my introductory guide, offering a bridge to connect with the timeless themes that reverberate across cultures. As I navigate the verses of Dickinson and Poe, I am aware that this journey not only deepens my understanding of ancient cultures but also provides profound insights into the universal threads of human expression that transcend both time and geography.
