The Politic Poet is Jim Rapp's seventh volume of poems. Like his previous collections this one features poems written in a variety of styles and themes: whimsical, pensive, and observant. Even argumentative.
Jim has never shied away from political expression. In fact he feels that one of his callings is akin to that of the prophet. He does not assume the title of prophet but much of his work is prophetic in the sense that it calls out the inconsistencies, the rapacious character, and the hypocritical nature of much of our culture, particularly the words and actions of our politicians.
The most recent political developments in our nation call upon all observant citizens to defend truth when it is under attack, and to point out lies when they encounter them. Obviously not everyone is going to accept that challenge. Some are benefitting from the inequities of our time and place. Others are oblivious to the forces that shape their world, content to go to work and be left alone. Still others are reluctant to speak out for fear of criticism or reprisals from their employer, colleagues or even friends and family. Some are simply overwhelmed by the multiple and contradictory currents of debate that sweep over us, fed by special interest groups and broadcast, 24/7, by our media.
Much of our political dialogue is anything but politic. Jim endeavors, in his political poems to strike a politic balance, not allowing expedience to crowd out fairness, partisanship to stand in for universal truthfulness, rancor to discourage needed debate and discussion.
But this volume of 130 plus poems, while insinuated, by its title, "The Politic Poet," to be a book of political writing is much more diverse than that. It is a book of poetry. You are invited to read and enjoy.
