Re-framing Literacy in Neoliberal Times: Teaching Poetry So Students Can See Through the Cracks

Abstract

The words of the poet and songwriter who inspired the title of this book remind us of the power of poetry to move us and to strengthen resolve. Using nothing more than carefully chosen language, poetry articulates thoughts, feelings and emotions to give voice where previously there was silence. This chapter suggests that interacting with poetry in formal education can create possibilities to challenge and subvert neoliberal oppression. Literacy, like poetry, focusses on how we understand, interpret and respond to language. In linking poetry to literacy this chapter also suggests that we are well served as a culture when we reflect carefully and at length upon the words and ideas of our poets.