Poetry

I was pleased to see that poetry enjoyed a central role in the presidential inauguration today.

Firstly, the new President was as eloquent and poetic as ever. He has such a rich mellow baritone that he could read a restaurant menu and get applauded for it.

But I was even more impressed with the fact that the Presidential address was followed by the reading of a poem by Elizabeth Alexander.

And, following that, I was even more deeply impressed by the poetic benediction delivered with power, grace and humour by The Reverend Dr Joseph E Lowery.

Americans can be proud that poetry plays such a central part in their public discourse.