Poetry in the Face of Tragedy: Exploring Poems about Plane Crashes

Poetry has long served as a powerful medium to navigate the complexities of the human experience, capturing both life's joys and sorrows in verse. One such tragedy that has inspired poets to reflect upon the fragility of existence is the plane crash. In the aftermath of these catastrophic events, poets have found solace, healing, and a means to commemorate the lives lost through their evocative words. In this article, we explore a selection of poignant poems about plane crashes that remind us of the impermanence of life and the resilience of the human spirit.

1. "Elegy for a Plane Crash" by Natasha Trethewey

"Elegy for a Plane Crash" is a hauntingly beautiful poem by Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Natasha Trethewey. In this deeply personal piece, Trethewey reflects on the tragic death of her stepfather, who perished in a plane crash. The poem explores the aftermath of the crash, delving into the complex emotions of grief, loss, and the struggle to find meaning in the face of tragedy. Trethewey's masterful use of imagery and metaphors allows readers to glimpse into the pain and sorrow she experienced, making it a moving tribute to her stepfather's life.

Excerpt from "Elegy for a Plane Crash":

"After the crash, before the news—
the paper, the late edition—
the dark, uncollected, airmail letters.
It is the hour of the unexpected, the half-open
door—a body, not yet found, floating
above the jet stream, in the high, circling,"

2. "When Great Trees Fall" by Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou, renowned for her ability to weave profound wisdom into her poetry, penned "When Great Trees Fall" as a moving tribute to those lost in the 1985 Japan Airlines Flight 123 crash. Angelou's words serve as a reminder that even in the face of tragedy, the impact of those who have passed away continues to reverberate through the lives they touched. The poem is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring legacy left behind by those who depart too soon.

Excerpt from "When Great Trees Fall":

"When great souls die,
the air around us becomes
light, rare, sterile.
We breathe, briefly.
Our eyes, briefly,
see with
a hurtful clarity."

3. "The Crash of Flight 063" by Brian Turner

Brian Turner's "The Crash of Flight 063" explores the aftermath of a plane crash from a unique perspective. The poem delves into the life of a survivor, highlighting the lasting trauma and the profound impact such an event can have on an individual. Turner's vivid imagery and raw emotion create a sense of urgency, allowing readers to experience the survivor's fear, confusion, and ultimately, their resilience in the face of unimaginable tragedy.

Excerpt from "The Crash of Flight 063":

"I am the crash
and the burning
of the airplane."
...
"There is a man
on the tarmac
with his hands
in his pockets,
swaying back
and forth."

Poems about plane crashes offer a window into the depths of human emotions in the face of tragedy. These verses capture the fragility of life, the pain of loss, and the resilience that emerges from the darkest moments. Through the power of poetry, we can honor the lives lost, share in the collective grief, and find solace in the beauty of language.