George Kraus is a new poet friend of mine.
Admittedly, when I learned that he was going to be sharing his work at the last Open Mic at Muddy Water Cafe, I chose to read a poem specifically with him in mind. I admire George, and I wanted to read a strong piece, so I chose a poem that made allusions to other forms of literature, science, and one of my favorite paintings, The Penitent Magdalen. I chose the right poem, because after the reading, George shared that whenever he visits the Metropolitan Museum of Art, he also spends time with The Penitent Magdalen. I was so happy! We had an instant connection.
George has a PhD in Hispanic and Luso-Brazilian Literature and Languages. The man is brilliant. He’s warm and friendly, and there is a sophistication to his work that reflects not only how well-read he is but also how much passion he has for thoughtful, crafted poetry.
To demonstrate and share his passion, George hosts a monthly poetry series at the Jewish Community Center called Sundays at the J. Benjamin and I were fortunate to have performed there last March, and it was a lovely experience! What I like best about George’s format is how he always opens it up to a discussion afterwards. Audience members have an opportunity to comment and ask the readers questions, and a salon happens. A salon happens! I love this! I love attending readings where I am not only swept away, awash in words, but where I am also challenged to think.
I attended George’s September reading that featured poets, Alan Holder and Natalie Safir, and I felt exactly this—-swept up and encouraged to ponder.
Alan’s poems were funny, intelligent, accessible, filled with nature imagery, and allusions to literature and culture. He had us all laughing with a poem about observing bee sex, and his style was smooth and entertaining.
Natalie’s work was brilliantly composed, honest, inviting, also filled with nature imagery, and vulnerable. It takes courage for a poet to stand before an audience and struggle to get through a piece that is dedicated to a friend who has recently passed away. Natalie was brave to do this, and I commend her for it.
At the end of the reading, George said something beautiful. And I’ll bring this post to a close by trying to paraphrase…
He thanked the poets and the audience for taking the time on a gorgeous afternoon to come inside and listen to poetry. In doing so, he said we all chose to spend a moment looking for meaning, because poetry after all, seeks meaning.
Yes, it does, George. Yes, it does.
