Poetry and Life: Why Studying Poems Teaches Us to Truly Understand
Essai by Wina Zakinah
[PPIPM-Indonesia & Poetry-Pen International Community, Poetry-BLaD & IOSoP 2025]
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Have you ever wondered why poetry matters? In a world that often rushes past feelings and dreams, poetry teaches us to slow down—to pause, to see, and to feel. It opens our eyes to truths that are often hidden beneath the surface of everyday life. When we study poetry, we are not merely reading words; we are entering the deepest corners of the human heart. We are learning empathy, resilience, and the courage to face the beauty and pain that life offers. Through poetry, we are invited to live more consciously and to connect more deeply with others. In this spirit, I would like to share three extraordinary poems: “Frozen Foam” (2023) by Zulkifli Abdy, and “The Mountain That Holds Time’s Secrets” (2012) and “A Window of Vanishing Shadows” (2018) by Leni Marlina. These poems are not just beautiful literary works; they are windows into life itself, offering lessons that stay with us long after the final line.
Firstly, the Zulkifli Abdy’s poem of “Frozen Foam” (2023) by teaches us about the danger of indifference. The poet paints a haunting picture of beauty that is both captivating and fleeting—like foam on the ocean waves. Beneath this image lies a deeper warning: when we ignore the real problems of the world, such as injustice and human suffering, we risk freezing our own compassion. This poem reminds us that silence and blindness to the struggles of others lead to a loss of our humanity. It calls on us to rise—to see, to care, and to act.
Secondly, Leni Marlina’s poem “The Mountain That Holds Time’s Secrets” (2012) takes us on a journey of inner strength and wisdom. In this poem, the mountain is more than just a majestic peak; it becomes a symbol of quiet endurance and deep understanding. True greatness, Marlina tells us, is not measured by noise or applause, but by how steadfastly we weather life’s storms. The mountain holds time’s secrets not through words, but through its silent resilience. It teaches us that the heart that remains patient and humble will carry wisdom that outlasts time itself.
Finally, in “A Window of Vanishing Shadows” (2018), Leni Marlina brings us into a tender moment of waiting and hope. Through the image of a mother sitting by a dusty window, weaving mats and dreams, she captures the unbreakable bond of love. Even as time passes and distances grow, the mother’s heart remains steadfast, quietly believing, quietly loving. This poem whispers a powerful truth: no matter how far we travel or how long we are gone, there is always someone who keeps a space for us in their heart.
In conclusion, studying poetry teaches us more than how to appreciate beauty; it teaches us how to be fully alive. It urges us to open our eyes, to feel with greater depth, and to walk through life with empathy and understanding. These poems remind us that behind every face, every silence, and every waiting heart, there is a story worth seeing and honoring. If we let poetry shape our hearts, we will not merely exist—we will truly live.
Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia, 2025
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About Writer:
Wina Zakinah is a student registered in 2024 at the English Department, Faculty of Languages and Arts, Universitas Negeri Padang, West Sumatra, Indonesia. She was born in Ranah Pantai Cermin in 2007, and now lives in Padang, West Sumatra. Wina is an alumna of Senior High School SMA N 3 Solok Selatan.
In addition, Wina Zakinah is a proud member of several literary and creative communities, including PPIPM-Indonesia (Poetry Community of Indonesian Society’s Inspiration), PPIC (Poetry-Pen International Community), Littalk-C (Literary Talk Community), and EL4C (English Language Learning Literary and Literacy Community).
References:
Abdy, Zulkifli (2023). “Frozen Foam.” A Message Floating on the Sea – The Selected Poetry Collection in Media suaraanaknegerinews.com. First digital publication: March 23, 2025. [Accessed April 2025].
Link: https://suaraanaknegerinews.com/a-message-floating-on-the-sea-the-selected-poetry-collection-ppipm-indonesia-poetry-pen-ic-indonesian-writers-of-satu-pena-indonesian-creators-of-ai-era/
Marlina, Leni (2012). “The Mountain That Holds Time’s Secrets.” O Seeker of Joy – Poetry Collection in Media suaraanaknegerinews.com. First digital publication: March 23th, 2025. [Accessed April 2025].
Link: https://suaraanaknegerinews.com/o-seeker-of-joy-kumpulan-puisi-ppipm-indonesia-poetry-pen-ic-satu-pena-sumbar-kreator-era-ai-fsm-acc-shila/
Marlina, Leni (2018). “A Window of Vanishing Shadows.” Your Name is Still Alive – The Poems Collection. First digital publication: March 23th, 2025. [Accessed April 2025].
Link: https://bonuasastra.kim.id/berita/read/your-name-is-still-alive-the-poems-25728-720104103102/0
The piece by Wina above was presented virtually at the Poetry Book Launching and Discussion (Poetry-BLaD) and the International Online Seminar on Poetry (IOSoP) held on May 31 at the Auditorium of the Faculty of Languages and Arts, Universitas Negeri Padang, held by Media Suaraanaknegerinews.com in collaboration with UNP.
Wina’s presentation video from the event is publicly accessible via the following official link:
