First of all, I want to give long overdue respect and recognition to a world-famous, gifted, talented writer. That' s the first thing. I would also like to support and encourage current writers. And I want to create a database at that gathering so that we might come together and network and strengthen each other. And we can rally around a truly accomplished writer. |
I know Helen would be proud, using her as a springboard for the voices of future poets. She was a pen in the hand of God. She had a natural talent and found the proper marketplace to sell her wares. And I know we have talented and gifted writers in this community. |
In her lifetime, (Rice) said she wrote several million poems. The reason for that is she didn't write her letters in prose but in verse. If there was a death in the family, or a wedding or a newborn baby, her gift was a poem. She wrote 75 books and was one of the world's most prolific poets. Her poetry has been translated into 20 different languages. |
In our society, we're having a huge problem with respect and appreciation of people and their art and talent. Everyone praises the almighty dollar. But the almighty dollar will never be what a friend or artist can be. |
She was a peacemaker. Her poems are always uplifting. |
We don't compare. It's not my poem is better than yours. We're like a chorus. Some sing alto, some sing baritone, some sing bass. |
We have Longfellow and Whittier. I don't understand why we don't' name one after one of our own writers. |