My husband has been very ill for over three years. Watchmen don't seem to be doing much, but they serve. The heart of John Milton spoke and other hearts responded. This is true poetry. Whether one wishes to compose poetry or desires to know what real poetry is, this is the best measure of a poem.
Poetry has an immediate effect.
Sometimes one feels the beat of sadness, sometimes of hope or joy, or, perhaps, exuberance. But not alone do the words which paint a picture for you, bring pleasure to your heart and a smile to your lips. Some poems will almost lift you off your feet. The flag is passing by. The flag is passing by.