Thich Nhat Hanh...
Dr. Bieler asks why I have such strong reactions to his poetry. That's precisely it. The content of his messages -- I cannot say. But the form with which he articulates his messages... As a spiritual leader, he has immmense power and influence. His words create ripple effects and he is admired and respected because of his ideology, his spirituality, and his influence in the political scenes. In these areas, he is a strong leader. As a poet, not so much.
Outside of certain contexts, his poetry falls flat for me. I do not find it objectionable that he uses poetry as one (of many) mediums to convey his messages of peace, love, and reconciliation. But I think there is a certain leniency that is granted to people like him which places less of a burden on them regarding technical craft.
Here, it becomes complicated b/c of questions like: What is meant by "people like him?" "What kinds of burdens?" Why less of a burden? Who imposes these responsibilities/burdens? Who carries them? Why? Why not?
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