A virtual gathering took place on the last Saturday night of July to honor the memory of acclaimed poet Jane Greer, who passed away after a series of health complications. Friends and fans of Greer, who is often regarded as one of the greatest living American poets, came together to share their love and gratitude for her remarkable life and talent. Many participants were unable to attend her funeral Mass in North Dakota but sought to express their collective grief and support for her husband and son during this challenging time.
Throughout the tribute, attendees reflected on Greer’s profound connection to her faith, encapsulated in the poignant question, “Do you think she was ready for the wonder of God?” The consensus was clear: Greer embraced her spirituality as a vital part of her existence. Her collection titled “Love like a Conflagration” exemplifies this perspective, illustrating her ability to intertwine themes of love and divine grace in her work.
In one of her notable poems, Greer writes, “He’s never skimped on prophets since He breathed you / out of the mud and on your way to Heaven.” This line serves as a reminder of the boundless mercy that Greer so often celebrated in her poetry. Her works resonate with themes of love, humility, and the complexities of human existence, making her a unique voice in contemporary literature.
During the tribute, Emily Stimpson Chapman, a close friend of Greer, highlighted the poet’s profound insights. Chapman described Greer’s poetry as “rich and gorgeous, full of wisdom, clarity, and truth,” emphasizing her ability to convey deep emotions in concise lines. Greer’s understanding of reality was closely tied to her faith in Jesus and His Church, which infused her poetry with both substance and texture.
The virtual event also served as a platform for attendees to share their favorite memories of Greer. Participants spoke of her humor, warmth, and the way she viewed the world with a tender sense of gratitude. As they discussed the themes of wonder and mystery, smiles filled the screen, reminiscent of the joy found in significant life moments, such as welcoming a newborn or witnessing love blossom in marriage.
Kathryn Jean Lopez, a senior fellow at the National Review Institute and editor-at-large of National Review magazine, expressed that Greer lived a joy that many aspire to experience. The poet’s legacy invites readers to explore similar feelings of wonder and connection to the divine. Lopez reflected on how Greer’s life and work serve as an inspiring reminder of the beauty and depth that poetry can bring to everyday life.
As the gathering concluded, participants left with a renewed sense of appreciation for Greer’s contributions to literature and spirituality. Her poetry continues to inspire and uplift, ensuring that her spirit lives on through the words she shared.
