Everyone Is (or can be) a Poet
Poetry is a universal language that invites anyone from any background, profession, gender, or race to engage with its beauty and depth. The act of writing or reading poetry can serve as a powerful form of expression and exploration, allowing individuals to articulate their thoughts, emotions, and experiences in ways that resonate and connect with others. Whether one is a seasoned writer or a novice exploring the written word for the first time, poetry offers a space for reflection, healing, and creativity. Through this art form, diverse voices emerge, enriching lives and fostering a sense of community and understanding among those who share their verses, creating a tapestry of human experience that transcends barriers.
Benjamin Bannaker: A Renaissance Man
Benjamin Bannaker (sometimes spelled Banneker) was a talented mathematician, astronomer, and writer, recognized as one of the first important African American intellectuals. Born on November 9, 1731, near Baltimore, he largely educated himself, often using books to enhance his knowledge, especially in mathematics. Bannaker created accurate astronomical almanacs from his observations of the stars and made important contributions in various fields, showcasing the spirit of a true Renaissance man. His work has greatly influenced American history and inspired future generations to pursue knowledge and creativity.
“The color of the skin is in no way connected with strength of the mind or intellectual powers.”
The Bannaker Clock
Bannaker’s remarkable clock invention significantly propelled his reputation among his peers and beyond. Sometime in the early 1750s, Benjamin borrowed a pocket watch from a wealthy acquaintance, skillfully took the watch apart, and meticulously studied its intricate components. After returning the watch, he created a fully functioning clock entirely out of beautifully carved wooden pieces, showcasing his exceptional craftsmanship. The clock was astonishingly precise, able to keep on ticking accurately for decades without faltering. As a result of the considerable attention and acclaim his self-made clock received, Banneker found the opportunity to start up his very own watch and clock repair business, marking the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey.
As his exceptional intellect and capabilities became widely recognized by the public, he was appointed to take part in the prestigious project of surveying the land that would ultimately become Washington, D.C. Around this same time, Banneker began writing his first almanac, and in 1791, he took the initiative to mail a handwritten portion of this work to Thomas Jefferson, who was serving as secretary of state at the time. Accompanying the manuscript was a heartfelt letter requesting Jefferson's assistance in advocating for improved conditions and rights for African Americans.
Thomas Jefferson’s 1791 Letter to Bannaker
Upon receipt of a copy of Mr. Bannaker’s Almanac ©Library of Congress
Banneker published his almanacs annually for a period of five years, starting in 1792, and throughout his life, he remained a passionate advocate for civil rights, tirelessly working towards equality and justice. While the exact date of his passing is the subject of some dispute, it is generally accepted that Banneker died in October of 1806. Tragically, on the day of his burial, his farmhouse caught fire and burned to the ground, destroying his beloved clock and many of his other works. Nonetheless, despite the devastating loss, his remarkable legacy continues to inspire generations..
Benjamin Bannaker, Mathematician, Astronomer, Writer & Poet
Almanac, 1795 Printed for and Sold by John Fisher, Stationer, Baltimore
In Benjamin Banneker's insightful poem titled "A Mathematical Problem in Verse," the intersection of mathematics and poetry is beautifully exemplified, showcasing the intrinsic and often surprising harmony between logic and creativity. Banneker skillfully employs a structured verse to present complex mathematical concepts, illustrating how the precision of numerical reasoning can not only coexist but also enhance the fluidity of poetic expression. This remarkable blending of disciplines highlights the universal language of mathematics, while also revealing the artistic potential that is inherently present in analytical thought. Through his engaging work, Banneker invites readers to fully appreciate how mathematical ideas can inspire a wide range of lyrical beauty, thereby creating a significant bridge between the analytical and the imaginative realms.
A Mathematical Problem in Verse
A truly remarkable example of the seamless melding of the analytical and creative mind can be found in poetry itself. Individuals from a diverse range of professions—scientists, mathematicians, lumberjacks, beekeepers, politicians, washerwomen, dancers, farmers, and soldiers—gravitate to the realm of poetry to artfully express their everyday lives and experiences. Through their verses, they convey their toils and tribulations, all while seeking and discovering profound meaning in the world that surrounds them.
“Evil communication corrupts good manners. I hope to live to hear that good communication corrects bad manners.”
