Hard to Get Why write poems when no one understands them | Theophilus Kwek | TEDxBencoolen St Youth
AI Summary
In this thought-provoking TED talk by poet Dio, he explores the question of why poets continue to write poetry despite its growing incomprehensibility to many audiences. Dio discusses the common perception that poetry is puzzling and often eliciting confusion among readers. Through his discourse, he emphasizes that poets seek to convey emotions and experiences that go beyond simple understanding, inviting readers to engage with the unseen elements of a poem. He illustrates this with a reading of a friend’s poem, “Radical Days,” created during the Covid-19 lockdown, which touches on themes of connection and longing amid isolation. Dio concludes with three vital lessons: poetry reminds us of our unique perspectives, fosters empathy in both reading and writing, and remains a unique medium for articulating profound moments that are often ineffable. He encourages the audience to embrace poetry as a means of connection, even when it doesn’t seem immediately comprehensible.