Writing Letters as poetry and protest song

This picture is by talented artist Steve Loya

It’s always interesting to think about polemical poetry and its pros and cons.

I think of the song Pink wrote, the letter to the President.  Absolutely beautiful and powerful, and expressive of frustration. 

Do you have a question burning that you need answered, perhaps a letter format is the perfect way to write about what ails your heart.

I love it when teachers include interesting lyrics from songs on the poetry curriculum. 

One of my favourite song writers is Paul Simon.  I was rapt when he was in my son’s year 12 poetry choices to discuss.

Contemporary Australian song writers I love are Archie Roach, Steve Pigram, Shane Howard, and Alesa Lajana.  They never shy away from difficult topics.

They write from the heart.  They engage with nature, history, place, and so much more.

See the song here: Mr President

(c) June…