What Is Poetry? Poem by Lawrence S. Pertillar

'What is poetry?
If it doesn't reflect the times.
And what 'is' poetry?
If the writer can not these times define.'

Down to a new low.
We go.
And slow.
To go...
Down to a new low.
We go...
Slow!

Giving up values for cash.
Giving up quality fast.
And bold we're beholden to it.
As if to pursue this to prove.

Down to a new low.
We go.
Down to a new low.
And slow.
Down to a new low.
To go...
Below.

'What is poetry?
If it doesn't reflect the times.
And what 'is' poetry?
If the writer can not these times define...
A quality of life not easy these times to find.'

Poets empathetic are effective when dissecting,
These times.
Although some reject what's expressed,
For preferred addressed impressions.

Poets empathetic are effective when dissecting,
These times.
Although some reject what's expressed.
For preferred addressed impressions.
But these times,
Are as depicted...
When found to find.

'What is poetry?
If it doesn't reflect the times.
And what 'is' poetry?
If the writer can not these times define...
What's found to find.'