Lowell’s poem, The Giver of Stars, brilliantly describes the importance of vulnerability in creating an emotional connection. In this composition, the soloists represent two people in a blossoming relationship. It is a story that illustrates their internal struggle in opening themselves up to one another.
After reading the first three words of this text, I immediately knew I had to set it to music. I am extremely passionate and have an endless curiosity about people. The message of this poem resonated with me because I love vulnerability and understanding what drives and motivates humans. In this world, it’s sometimes hard to open yourself up due to the potential of being judged, but it’s important to remember that there is so much fulfillment and joy in connecting with others.
Text
Hold your soul open for my welcoming.
Let the quiet of your spirit bathe me
With its clear and rippled coolness,
That, loose-limbed and weary, I find rest,
Outstretched upon your peace, as on a bed of ivory.
Let the flickering flame of your soul play all about me, That into my limbs may come the keenness of fire,
The life and joy of tongues of flame,
And, going out from you, tightly strung and in tune,
I may rouse the blear-eyed world,
And pour into it the beauty which you have begotten.
-Amy Lowell
Kaitlyn Kimura 