As we celebrate Mother's Day in 2023, let us not forget the role that poetry and poets have played in expressing the profound love and appreciation we have for our mothers. From ancient times to the present day, poets have used their art to celebrate the unique bond between mother and child, and to express the depth of emotion that comes with being a mother or having a mother.
One of the earliest examples of motherly love in poetry can be found in the works of the ancient Greek poet, Homer. In his epic poem, the Odyssey, he portrays the reunion of the hero, Odysseus, with his wife and mother after years of journeying. The joy and tenderness displayed in their reunion is a testament to the strong maternal bonds that have existed throughout human history.
In more recent times, poets such as Maya Angelou and Langston Hughes have explored the complexities of motherhood, using their powerful words to explore the joys and challenges that come with this unique role. In her poem "Mother: A Cradle to Hold Me," Angelou writes of the sheltering love and support that a mother can offer to her child, while Hughes' "Mother to Son" speaks of the struggles and hardships that a mother must endure in order to provide for her children.
In addition to celebrating the joys of motherhood, poetry has also been a powerful tool for processing the pain of losing a mother. In his poem "Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night," Dylan Thomas writes of his intense grief at the impending death of his own mother, urging her to fight against the inevitable and hold on to life as long as possible.
As we celebrate Mother's Day in 2023, let us take a moment to honor the poets who have helped us express our most profound emotions about the mothers in our lives. From ancient Greek epics to contemporary spoken-word performances, poetry continues to be a vital medium for exploring the depth of feeling that comes with being a mother or having a mother. Happy Mother's Day to all the mothers out there, and to the poets who have helped us express our love for them!
A Poem for All Moms
A mother's love is pure and true,
Her heart beats for me and you.
She nurtures, guides, and loves us so,
Making sure we always know.
On this special day we celebrate,
The one who makes our lives great.
Our moms, our rocks, our guiding light,
Who keep us safe, day and night.
We offer thanks for all they do,
For the words they say and the deeds they pursue.
May every smile, every hug we give,
Bring happiness to the mom we love.
Happy Mother's Day to all the moms,
Who give their children a loving calm.
May your days be filled with love and light,
And your hearts be forever bright.