The warrior-poet is an ancient tradition of strengthening the body, the mind, and the spirit. Recognizing the connection between skill and reflection, courage and wisdom, strength and spirituality.
The warrior-poet shows up on the pages of history.
- The Fianna of early Ireland, fierce warriors who were summoned by kings in times of war. They were required to be skilled in poetry. Their 3 mottoes were “purity of our hearts,” “strength of our limbs,” and “action to match our speech.”
- The Samurai of Japan, warriors who were well-educated and skilled in the art of calligraphy – “masters of the pen and the sword.”
- The Knights of medieval Europe, with their code of chivalry which required excellence in the areas of military, social etiquette, and religion.
The warrior-poet shows up in pop culture.
- “In the Year of our Lord 1314, patriots of Scotland – starving and outnumbered – charged the fields of Bannockburn. They fought like warrior-poets; they fought like Scotsmen, and won their freedom.” – Braveheart
- “Warrior-poet once said you’re not dead yet, so live like you could be. Warrior-poet said have no regrets when you’re old.” – The Classic Crime
- QB “Steamin” Willie Beamen is referred to as a warrior-poet by a sports commentator played by Director Oliver Stone in his film, Any Given Sunday
This tradition is still carried on today.
It’s about action emboldened by passion, a fusion of athletics and the arts, confidence catalyzed by purposeful living, and a balance between strength and sensitivity.
The articles under The Way of the Warrior Poet category will all reflect one or more of these interlaced themes.
