Entry 19 - Beginning to Learn, by Adrian Rice

Beginning to Learn by Adrian Rice

Originally from Belfast, now living (15 yrs) in Hickory NC, Adrian Rice has established himself as a poet on both sides of the Atlantic. His latest book is T he Strange Estate: New & Selected Poems 1986-2017 (Press 53). Adrian is completing Doctoral studies at Appalachian State University, where he teaches First Year Seminar.

Just as when a great poet-mentor died, Seamus Heaney, one’s writerly reaction was - for goodness sake, DO NOT even think of rushing to write an elegy. Then it happens, the very same day. Poetry happens. Same with this poem - DO NOT write about the virus situation! Then ... “Beginning To Learn”. Real poems are given, not manufactured. I need to keep re-learning that.