Union by Robert Fulghum is a short piece of writing that has been widely used as a reading at weddings for many years. But is it a poem? The answer to this question is somewhat subjective, as the definition of poetry can vary from person to person. In this blog post, we will explore Union by Robert Fulghum and consider whether or not it can be classified as a poem.
What is Union by Robert Fulghum?
For those who are not familiar with Union, it is a passage from the book ‘From Beginning to End: The Rituals of Our Lives’ by American author and Unitarian Universalist minister Robert Fulghum. The passage reads as follows:
“You have known each other from the first glance of acquaintance to this point of commitment. At some point, you decided to marry. From that moment of yes, to this moment of yes, indeed, you have been making promises and agreements in an informal way. All those conversations that were held riding in a car or over a meal or during long walks – all those sentences that began with “When we’re married” and continued with “I will and you will and we will”– those late-night talks that included “someday” and “somehow” and “maybe”– and all those promises that are unspoken matters of the heart. All these common things, and more, are the real process of a wedding.
The symbolic vows that you are about to make are a way of saying to one another, “You know all those things we’ve promised and hoped and dreamed–well, I meant it all, every word.” Look at one another and remember this moment in time. Before this moment, you have been many things to one another–acquaintance, friend, companion, lover, dancing partner, and even teacher, for you have learned much from one another in these last few years. Now you shall say a few words that take you across a threshold of life, and things will never quite be the same between you. For after these vows, you shall say to the world, this–is my husband, this–is my wife.”
What is poetry?
Before we can determine whether Union is a poem, we must first consider what poetry is. Poetry is a form of writing that uses language to evoke a particular emotion or express an idea through the use of meter, rhyme, and other literary techniques. While poetry is often associated with verse, it can take many different forms, including free verse and prose poetry.
Is Union a poem?
Based on the definition of poetry provided above, it is possible to argue that Union is not a poem. While it is certainly an evocative piece of writing that expresses love and commitment, it does not make use of traditional poetic techniques such as meter or rhyme. Instead, it is written in prose, which is more commonly associated with non-fiction and other types of writing.
On the other hand, some might argue that Union can be considered a type of poetry known as prose poetry. Prose poetry is a form of writing that combines elements of both prose and poetry and does not use traditional poetic techniques such as meter or rhyme. Instead, it uses techniques such as rhythmic language, vivid imagery, and intentional line breaks to create a poetic effect.
Conclusion
In conclusion, whether or not Union by Robert Fulghum is a poem is ultimately a matter of interpretation. While it does not make use of traditional poetic techniques such as meter or rhyme, it is a powerful piece of writing that uses language to evoke emotion and express important ideas about love and commitment. Whether you consider it a poem or not, it is clear that Union has had a significant impact on many couples who have chosen to include it in their wedding ceremonies.
FAQ
What is the poem for September wedding?
There is an old poem that is often recited when it comes to choosing a wedding date. It goes like this: “Marry in September’s shine, your living will be rich and fine. If in October you do marry love will come, but riches tarry. If you wed in bleak November only joys will come, remember.”
The poem is believed to stem from an ancient Celtic tradition of choosing wedding dates based on the cycles of nature. September is considered a particularly auspicious month for a wedding, as the weather is often mild and the days are still long enough to make the most of the celebrations. The line “your living will be rich and fine” is a promise of prosperity and abundance for the couple who chooses to marry in September.
The next two lines offer some insight into the character of the other two months mentioned. October is seen as a time when love is more likely to bloom than financial success, while November is a cold and bleak month that offers only joy and happiness as a reward for those who choose to wed in it.
Of course, the poem is just a bit of fun, and many people choose their wedding date based on factors such as the availability of the venue, the preferences of their guests, or their own personal schedules. However, for those who believe in the power of traditions and superstitions, the poem offers a charming way to add some extra meaning to the choice of a wedding date.
Can I read a poem at a wedding?
A wedding ceremony is a beautiful occasion full of love, commitment and celebration. When it comes to the ceremony, many couples choose to personalize the experience to make it more meaningful to them. One way of doing this is by incorporating poems into the ceremony. The question is can you read a poem at a wedding? The answer is yes, you can!
A poem will fit into your ceremony wherever readings are appropriate. You can set the tone at the beginning of your ceremony with a poem after the officiant’s welcome. This can help to create a peaceful and calm atmosphere for guests to settle into. A poem can also be included before the vows. This is a great way of adding some extra special meanings to the ceremony that come from the heart. The poem can express the thoughts, emotions, and promises of the couple for each other in a way that simple words cannot. This can also be an opportunity to share a reading by a favorite author or poet whom they both admire.
When selecting a poem to read, consider the message you want to convey to your partner and guests. The poem should be one that expresses the love the couple has for each other, and the commitment they are making on their special day. You should choose a poem that resonates with you both – one that feels light, friendly, sweet or romantic. It doesn’t have to be overtly religious or overly sentimental either. You can also choose a poem that reflects your beliefs, values or cultural background.
It’s also important to think about the tone and style of the poem. Some poems are light and whimsical, while others are more heartfelt and emotional. You should choose a poem that reflects the tone and style of the rest of your wedding ceremony.
Finally, when it comes to reading the poem, you should rehearse it before the wedding day. You may want to have someone else read the poem, or you may want to read it yourself. Either way, rehearsing the poem beforehand will ensure that you feel confident and prepared to read it on your special day.
A wedding is a time of joy and celebration. Reading a poem during the ceremony can add a personal touch to the occasion, and help to express the emotions and sentiments of the couple. Make sure to choose a poem that resonates with you and your partner, reflects your beliefs and values, and sets the right tone for the ceremony. With a little preparation and rehearsal, reading a poem at your wedding can be a beautiful and memorable part of your special day.
Who wrote the giraffe and the monkey poem?
“The Giraffe and the Monkey” is a humorous poem that has become quite popular for its light and playful tone. The author of this poem is Daniel Thompson. Though not much is known about the personal background of the author, he is known for his witty and humorous writing style. The poem itself is a metaphor for finding happiness by sharing your life with someone who makes you laugh and enjoys your sense of humor.
The poem describes a giraffe and a monkey who are the best of friends. The giraffe, being tall, eats leaves off the high branches of trees, while the monkey, being small, eats fruits and nuts from the lower branches. Despite their physical differences, the giraffe and the monkey share a strong bond of friendship that is strengthened by their shared appreciation for humor. The poem ends with the monkey laughing at the giraffe’s silly jokes, and the giraffe being grateful for the monkey’s ability to make him feel good.
Daniel Thompson’s “The Giraffe and the Monkey” is an excellent example of how poetry can be used to convey light-hearted themes in a witty and charming way. The poem has become very popular and is often included in weddings, graduation ceremonies, and other events where a touch of humor is needed. Its popularity is a testament to the fact that even in serious situations, we all need a moment to laugh and to share a smile.