Expanding the use of the symbolic/ceremonial mode of poetry therapy practice: A cross-cultural metaphor

Abstract

The purpose of this article is to encourage the expanded use of the symbolic/ceremonial mode of poetry therapy practice. Through examination of the influence of the poem “Youth” by Samuel Ullman, and its role in the revitalization of post-war Japan, specific elements are identified that mark the transformation of this poem from written words to symbol to ceremony that promoted recovery for a nation and a basis for cross-cultural exchange and understanding. These elements suggest a pathway for how poetry therapy might broaden its focus beyond its customary applications with individuals for personal healing and growth to circumstances involving intergroup conflict. Several examples are provided that illustrate how poetry therapy might be used to discover similarities and differences in feelings and perceptions between conflicting or diverse groups with a goal of creating increased intergroup acknowledgment, dialogue and resolution of conflict.

Keywords:

• Cross-cultural
• inter-group conflict
• metaphor, poetry therapy
• Samuel Ullman
• symbolic/ceremonial