The captivating poetic journey of Peter Bakowski is an inspirational tale for literature enthusiasts across the globe. An Australian poet, Bakowski’s contribution to the world of poetry has been nothing short of remarkable. His work, characterized by profound simplicity and stark imagery, reflects a deep understanding of human emotions, relationships, and experiences. His verses are a testament to his keen observation skills and his ability to express the most complex emotions in the simplest of words.
Born on this day October 15, 1954, Peter Bakowski’s poems are a reflection of his extensive travels and interactions with diverse cultures and people. A significant part of his poetic journey can be traced back to his travels across Europe, America, and Asia in the 1980s. His encounters and experiences during these journeys have greatly influenced his work, imbuing it with a richness and depth that are truly captivating. The poet’s ability to create vivid images through his words has made him a favorite among readers worldwide.
Bakowski’s journey as a poet began in the early 1980s when he decided to take up poetry full-time. His first book of poems, Thunder Road, Thunder Heart, was published in 1988, and since then there has been no looking back. Over the years, he has won several awards for his work, including the prestigious Victorian Premier’s Award for Poetry.
Bakowski’s poetry is not just about beautiful rhymes and verses; it is about life itself. His poems explore various themes – love, loss, joy, despair – all with a refreshing honesty and sensitivity. Peter Bakowski’s poetic journey is indeed captivating – a journey that unveils the beauty of life and human emotions through the power of words.
Times For Drinking Tea In China
When you’ve bargained well at the market
When you’ve cleared stones from a field
When sheltering from rain
When the horse you’ve tethered quietens
When resting by a riverbank
When a stream’s fish resist your baited hook and shining lures
When envious of a neighbour’s larger herd of goats.
When dreaming of leaving your village, never to return.
When the landlord visits
When remembering lean years, the selling of family heirlooms to buy food
When the midwife has left, her good work done
When a fox has been amongst your chickens
When a lost sheep is found, bleating in a ditch
When you’ve repaired your bicycle, brushed the dirt from your knees
When you’re the only one awake in the dormitory
When far from home.
When thinking about what your parents taught you
When thinking about what you’re had to learn for yourself
When you’ve paid off a debt
When trying to understand a relative
When you’ve paced the room for too long
When discussing the afterlife
When the fog lifts from the path you’ve taken
When your tea canister is almost empty.
(from Beneath Our Armour)
-Peter Bakowski
Curated by Jennifer
