DRUG ADDICTION POEMS

After posting on contemporary inspirational poems about addiction I failed to mention that drug addiction poems were not by any means based on or restricted to the problems in this area that we face in modern times. Unfortunately, addicts and their issues are hardly a new phenomenon. Before the meth addict, there was the drunk and the Laudanum and opium addict. And let’s not forget to mention the addict that until recent years that was thought to only be causing physical damage only to himself without harming others, the smoker. (Of course, we know now that second hand smoke is very dangerous to anyone who shares breathing space with a smoking cigarette but for years we thought this was a problem for the smoker only.)

At times it makes us feel a little better to know that we are not the only ones who are dealing with the problem of addiction, thus the success of both AA and Al-Anon, so I dredged up some very interesting and inspirational drug addiction poems that were written long before the methamphetamine addiction epidemic or the problem of prescription drug abuse.

I found an excellent and highly sought after book that offers some drug addiction poems that were written more than a few years ago. In fact, the two hundred poems contained in the book were written across a span of seven centuries reflecting a virtual smorgasbord of mental states many of which are common to both addicts and the people who are connected to them.
Some people argue that addiction and mental illness are one and the same. It’s true that both serve up symptoms of despondency, despair and melancholia as well as manic episodes or as some believe, existence in a state of heightened perception of the world and life as we know it.

Whether or not you find this book of poems of drug addiction and quotes inspiring depends on where you are in your recovery as well as your mindset at the time of reading and whether you are prone to depression. I did find the book depressing but a marvel of creativity with the likes of Sylvia Plath, George Herbert, John Clare, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, John Berryman, Ann Sexton, Weldon Kees, Lucille Clifton, Jane Kenyon and other poets worthy of not. This book, A Mind Apart by Bauer, is most appreciated by those who are suffering from addiction, mental illness or those who simply appreciate poetry written by those who have experienced the heights and depths of the human spirit.

INSPIRATIONAL ADDICTION POEMS

A number of inspirational addiction poems have been submitted by visitors to this blog recently and of all the quotes and poetry that I have read in my lifetime none could compare with the emotional outpouring that I felt when reading the words of the authors.

Some of the stories were written in rhyme and others in a gentle, calming rhythm that belied the torment that the authors were obviously feeling. Having many friends in Al-Anon, I found it relatively easy to spot the poetry that was written by loved ones and family members that had found peace and contentment by working the 12 Step Program as recommended by that life saving organization. Much of the literature produced by Al-Anon focuses on bringing the individuals surrounded by alcoholism and addiction back to a normal, sane life no matter what the choices made by the addict in their lives.

The inspirational addiction poems and quotes submitted by those who are successful in following this line of thought are uplifting and filled with peace, hope and understanding. It's as if the poetry was specifically written as a soothing balm for troubled souls who have not yet found support.

Unfortunately not all addiction poems are composed by those whose minds and thoughts are peaceful. Those who are still in agony over watching a spouse, a son or daughter or perhaps a parent being sucked into the black hole of addiction and death are often compelled by the overwhelming sadness to put their feelings about the disease of addiction into words.

I want to thank everyone who visits here for sharing their inspirational addiction poems and to offer prayers to those who are still suffering. For the next few days, I will be posting some of the poetry that has been shared through the comment form on this blog.

If you have inspirational addiction poems or quotes that might help others or if you have not found the path to a better life and it would help you to relieve some of the pressure to share some thoughts you are welcome to send them to us as well.