A Reminder Of Excellence Poem by Denis Martindale

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I sometimes see other people's writing
as a form of poetry because
I hear the words and can recognise these
as having a quality all of their own.
So that is why I appreciate those
who can recite poetry so well
that you would want to do just as well
in reciting your poetry, too.

The example of the poemhunter website
shows us how Blessed Sheriff uses her style
of speaking the poetry slowly
and enriching it and enhancing it,
as if I can hear the original text afresh,
as she brings out such beauty to me.
Beauty can be in the ear of the listener
just as joy transforms what we read and recite.

When talent combines with talent
we perceive something of a miracle happening,
as can be seen so much in the way
great singers can take song lyrics
to the highest measure of perfection,
just as musical orchestration
can elevate the most basic musical notes.

Every time I hear Nat King Cole
singing the song When I Fall In Love
I can listen to something of a miracle once again.
The orchestra playing, Nat King Cole singing,
and somehow the lyrics are brought to life,
and these words now live in my heart and mind,
as a reminder of excellence.

Denis Martindale. May 2021.