Poetry for the Pandemic: Clackmannanshire’s Words of Strength
During the Covid-19 pandemic, many found solace in words and writing, using poetry as a powerful outlet to express the complex emotions brought on by fear, isolation, and loss. In Clackmannanshire, the Remembering Together project provided a platform for local communities to channel these emotions into creative expression through poetry.
The poetry workshops hosted across the county, guided by the esteemed poet and author John King, fostered an environment where individuals could contribute their thoughts and feelings, no matter how brief or in-depth. Whether through a single word, a line, or a full-page reflection, each voice was valued, co-creating a tapestry of shared experiences.
John King worked closely with our local communities to weave together everyone’s contributions into unique poems that spoke to each area’s collective experience. By doing so, the project ensured that everyone’s input was heard, and the resulting poems became a reflection of the resilience, loss, and strength shared by the community.
One powerful example is the poem "Hidden Diamonds Still Shine," which emerged from the Sauchie community. The poem captures the collective experience of navigating fear, anger, and isolation while also cherishing moments of hope, slower pace, and connection with others. The metaphor of "hidden diamonds" speaks to the quiet, resilient strength that persisted even in the darkest moments of the pandemic.
Excerpt from "Hidden Diamonds Still Shine":
“I remember
At first I felt so peaceful
Chilling
Time with my parents
Baking
Childlike memories
...”
The imagery throughout the poem reflects the contrasting emotions many experienced during lockdown—the initial feeling of peace and time spent with family juxtaposed against grief and anxiety over loss. It’s a poignant reminder that even in times of great difficulty, there are moments of light and connection.
The Role of Poetry in Healing
Poetry, especially during moments of crisis, has long been a tool for emotional release and collective healing. According to research by psychologists, engaging in creative activities such as writing can promote mental well-being by allowing individuals to process emotions in a safe and structured way. During the pandemic, poetry became a vehicle for sharing experiences of grief, community solidarity, and personal resilience.
Dr. James Pennebaker, a well-known psychologist, noted:
“Writing about emotional upheavals in a structured way can actually improve physical health and emotional well-being.”
The Remembering Together project exemplified this approach, providing a platform for people to channel their emotions and feel a sense of solidarity through their words.
Moving Forward
The poetry created during this project will not only stand as a memorial to the difficult times experienced but will also serve as a testament to the strength and resilience of the people of Clackmannanshire. Through these words, the community has built a legacy of healing, one that continues to inspire long after the pandemic has passed.
The ten community-created poems have been beautifully compiled into a dedicated poetry collection for Clackmannanshire. This meaningful anthology will be available as a free download from the ResonateTogether.org.uk website in 2025, offering an enduring testament to the shared experiences and resilience of the county’s people during the Covid-19 pandemic.