Scrittura Poetry Prompt
Hope is Hard Work
in this broken world
How can we find hope amid uncertainty, conflict, or loss? When we feel we have lost hope, we may find inspiration in the words and deeds of others. In this selection of poems, hope takes many forms: an open road, an unturned page, a map to another world, an ark, an infant, a long-lost glove that returns to its owner. Using metaphors for hope seems appropriate, as the concept of hope is difficult to describe. It is deeper than simple optimism, and more mysterious, delicate, and elusive. It is a feeling we must develop and cultivate, but like faith, it is also a state with which we are graced. Hope can foster determination and grit — the ability to bounce back and to remain determined despite failures and setbacks — when we make daily efforts to change and improve what we can control. These poems speak to the importance of hope and resilience.
~ from the Poetry Foundation.
Here is a link to hope-oriented poetry provided by the Poetry Foundation.
In this broken world, hope is hard work.
(work in progress by Wry)
I find it difficult to write about hope. I am ambivalent about it; hope can be cruel as well as inspiring. I recently wrote a poem about its futility: Hope is Hogwash. For contrast, about love and resilience, see Wedding Picture Timetrips.
