Celebrating National Poetry Month

As we welcome March, we look ahead to National Poetry Month in April—a time to celebrate the power of words and the beauty of expression. President John F. Kennedy, in his remarks at Amherst College on October 26, 1963, honoring poet Robert Frost, eloquently captured the essence of poetry's role in our lives:

“When power leads men towards arrogance, poetry reminds him of his limitations. When power narrows the areas of man's concern, poetry reminds him of the richness and diversity of existence. When power corrupts, poetry cleanses.” 

Kennedy’s words highlight why poetry continues to resonate across generations. It reflects our shared humanity and serves as a compass, guiding us through the complexities of life.

In this spirit, we proudly feature a poem by our Peoria Women’s Club member, Maggie Nelson. Her work embodies the creativity and depth that National Poetry Month seeks to highlight.

Looking Ahead: A Special June Program

As we celebrate poetry, we look forward to our Mid-year Luncheon in June, where the talented Barry Cloyd will perform poetry and music by Illinois Poet Laureate Carl Sandburg. Sandburg, a beloved figure in American literature, graced our club with his presence on Founder’s Day in 1931. This unique program will honor his legacy and connect us with the rich cultural history of our club and community.

Stay tuned for more details, and let’s continue celebrating the power of poetry together!

Text and recording of JFK’s remarks courtesy of the John F. Kennedy Library and the U.S. National Archives.