Poems About Hockey By Famous Poets
Hockey is more than just a sport. It's a passion that millions of fans share. And it's not just the fans who are passionate about hockey. Many poets have also captured the spirit of the game in their works. In this article, we will explore some of the most famous poems about hockey written by notable poets.
The Goalie by Charles Bukowski
Charles Bukowski is known for his gritty, raw, and honest poetry. In his poem, "The Goalie," he describes a moment in a hockey game from the perspective of the goalie. The poem is filled with intense imagery that captures the tension and pressure of being a goalie:
the puck is flying at you like a bullet.your vision is bent, you see 2 pucks.you choose the wrong one, it whistles past your ear,hits the boards, duds, drops down, another oneis coming, fast, it has eyes..."
Bukowski's poem is a vivid portrayal of the skill, focus, and determination required to be a goalie in a hockey game.
Hockey Poem by Shel Silverstein
Shel Silverstein is a beloved children's author known for his whimsical poems and illustrations. In his "Hockey Poem," he imagines a world where hockey is played by animals:
"The hockey team from HootervillePlayed the team from Froggyville.The score was six to six,When a froggy took a stick..."
Silverstein's poem is a playful and imaginative take on the sport of hockey, reminding us that hockey can be enjoyed by anyone, regardless of age or species.
Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening by Robert Frost
Robert Frost is one of the most famous American poets, known for his simple yet profound works. In his poem, "Stopping By Woods on a Snowy Evening," he describes a journey through snow-covered woods. While the poem is not specifically about hockey, it has been celebrated by hockey fans for its connection to the sport:
"The woods are lovely, dark and deep,But I have promises to keep,And miles to go before I sleep,And miles to go before I sleep."
The lines "And miles to go before I sleep" have become a ubiquitous phrase in hockey culture, symbolizing the endurance and determination required to play the game at a high level.
Casey at the Bat by Ernest Thayer
Ernest Thayer's "Casey at the Bat" is one of the most famous poems about baseball, but its themes of success and failure are relevant to hockey as well. The poem tells the story of the arrogant and overconfident Casey, who strikes out in the clutch. It's a cautionary tale that reminds us that even the best players can falter under pressure:
"Oh, somewhere in this favored land the sun is shining bright,The band is playing somewhere, and somewhere hearts are light;And somewhere men are laughing, and somewhere children shout;But there is no joy in Mudville—mighty Casey has struck out."
While Casey's story might feel like a defeat for hockey fans, it's also a reminder that the game is full of surprises and that anything can happen in the heat of the moment.
Conclusion
These are just a few examples of the rich and varied poetry that celebrates the sport of hockey. From Charles Bukowski's raw and gritty portrayal of the goalie's experience to Shel Silverstein's playful and imaginative take on the game, these poems remind us that hockey is more than just a sport—it's a source of passion, inspiration, and creativity.
