Edward L. Hart: A Conversation about Poetry

Authors

Casualene Meyer

Keywords

Mormon studies, interview, Edward L. Hart, poetry

Abstract

Poet Edward L. Hart wrote the lyrics to one of Mormonism's favorite hymns, "Our Savior's Love." As a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Hart gives his thoughts on the relationship between praise and poetry and how even secular poems can capture a sense of worship. He also discusses the inspiration behind subjects he's addressed in poetry, including nature and war; the background of some of his compositions; and his influences. He describes the power of poetic language this way: "The feel for human truths goes hand in hand with the language and all that the words suggest, their history. The whole working together conveys a truth that was always known but comes with a shock of recognition, because we hadn't been aware that we knew it."

Recommended Citation

Meyer, Casualene (2001) "Edward L. Hart: A Conversation about Poetry," BYU Studies Quarterly: Vol. 40: Iss. 1, Article 10.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/byusq/vol40/iss1/10