Yes it can in fact be a lot of fun! Consider the following... A relative of mine on facebook sent me a "Heart." Now for those who are not familiar with facebook, there are a number of icons available to forward or otherwise post at "friends" pages. Hearts are one of many. In this case I was sent a star spangled heart that very much resembled a heart shaped American flag. As a result of this "gift" I decided to post a thank you note in rhyme. This poetic note interested my relative and sparked the following exchange:ME: Thanks John, I take this heart red, white and blue, upon each gaze I'll think of you. Across this land our families reach from eastern to the western beach. And though we're different in some manner remember that we share this banner.
Now, John had heard that I dabble in poetry and decided to respond in kind…
John: I once met Bill a very fine gent.
He resides in Florida with nary a cent.
He sent me a heart and touched me so, I sent one back and called him bro.
This naturally begged a reply, so…
Me: Fine hearts these are that join us twain,
but rhyming could drive both insane,
so with each beat we’ll face the dare
‘till failure leads us to despair
then both may lay their quills to rest and neither claim to be the best.
and neither claim to be the best.
So…
John: Ah to lay one's quill to rest, this will surely be the test.
Of all the prose ever written only a few have been poetically bitten.
So join me now brother of the pen, to inspire others to see light in the din.
man this is fun!!!!
Now this was when I realized I had brought John a gift. He was having a very good time. To my knowledge the man has never tried his hand at rhyme, so the entire exchange was a new experience for him. This is what followed...
Me: A challenge you offer my simple wits
to go ‘till one or other quits
I’m up to that for a little while,
though you and I differ in style,
so to the gauntlet you have thrust, yes, I say to you; I must!
By now it was getting a little late in the afternoon, and there were appointments to keep and jobs to do, so the exchange began to wind down, but with a finale that was very enjoyable.
yes I say to you; I must!
John: Oh great warrior in the East, test not this aging beast.
For even when the ink is dry, the words of poets will continue to fly.
Err not my mighty friend for the battle will never. (end)
Put up your sword and be my friend, it is your poetic honor that I will defend.
Me: A warrior nay, though bard we’ll stay with pen or feathery quill,
With parchment shield our swords we wield and ink like blood shall spill.
This gauntlet dropped the lexis stopped our blades returned to sheath.
The night turned old, our thoughts though bold the quiet we bequeath.
…and that was that.
Yes, it was enjoyable and a fine exercise for the mind. If you have never tried getting into an exchange like this by all means, jump in! Poetry is fun, and John? Well I suspect John has discovered the joys of poetry. Give him a little time with a pen and let’s see what happens!