Poems are the lyrics of a writer’s mind.
This is what I have always said whenever I’m asked about the meaning of a poem or poetry. People usually give me a skeptical look because they expect a more refined, technical definition. And considering the fact that I’m an English and Literature student, they expect something more perfect. But sometimes, that’s exactly where we get it wrong.
I’m not saying the standard definitions of poetry are wrong. But when you only learn definitions—when you consume things theoretically without interpreting them in your own language or understanding them deeply, especially in a subject like literature—you limit your ability to be creative with it.
Literature is a very interesting and generous field. Generous in the sense that you can do so much with it. It inspires creativity, and creativity is the first step toward productivity. It is not a subject bound by rigid rules that must be strictly followed to achieve a result. Yes, it has techniques, structures, and narrative guidelines, but these can only be used effectively when you truly understand the basics and interpret them in your own way—when you find your unique voice.
Literature allows you to express yourself in the best way you can. Two definitions of literature that capture this perfectly are:
1. Literature is a work of art. And art is inspired by life—the things around us. Life is art, and art is life. That means literature is life itself.
2. Literature is a mirror of life.
These definitions strike at the heart of what literature truly is.
So what am I getting at? This: don’t subscribe to the idea that literature is unlucrative. That belief often comes from people who simply study texts, analyze them, and stop there—without doing anything productive or creative with their knowledge.
As a graduate, a student, or an aspiring literary mind, the moment you stop being a passive consumer of theory and begin to produce something with your skills—whatever form it takes—you step into what I call literary entrepreneurial agency.
When you make that shift and adopt a more expansive perspective, you begin to see literature as an institution on its own, with countless vital functions. If you’re not a writer, you can be an editor. If not an editor, then a publisher. If not a publisher, then a thinker. If not a thinker, then an educator. If not an educator, you can build platforms that bring voices together. You can be a commentator, a philosopher, an analyst who simplifies complex texts for others, a translator, or an interpreter.
A single intellectual work in literature can be expressed in multiple ways, depending on its context—and the possibilities are endless.
But take note of two things:
- Theory gives you tools and Interpretation gives you voice. Without theory → your work may lack structure. Without interpretation → your work may lack originality. The best creators combine both.
- In this era, you must bring your relevance into the digital space. Otherwise, you remain invisible. Position yourself strategically. Show evidence of your intelligence. Build a community that shares your vision.
