But it wasn't the boring stuff of literary criticism either. And on a sub-zero night in the middle of Wisconsin people were applauding. Note, however, the disjunct nature of those three categories. I believe poetry is alive and well. Just listen to popular music or rap.
Some people are afraid of poetry.
We have to start with educating children. Most kids love poetry until the age of six. We have to keep the fire lit so that when they become adults, that understanding and love of poetry is not extinguished. Sharon B. Murphy, Norton, MA Contemporary poets, knowing the state of poetry, have accepted the situation as a challenge. In doing so, they have put the best face on what they must do.