From the Division of Hematology-Oncology, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN
Authors’ disclosures of potential conflicts of interest are found at the end of this article.
Address reprint requests to Larry D. Cripe, MD, Founding Director, CompleteLife, Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center, RT 440, 535 Barnhill Dr, Indianapolis, IN 46202; e-mail: lcripe{at}iupui.edu
Overview: There are many examples of the vibrant presence of poetry within oncology. Oncology health care providers write, publish and read poetry. Poetry may be used to foster reflection and self-awareness, and poetry may enhance narrative analysis. However, I restrict my reflection to poetry as a means to foster humanistic values such as empathy and humility in myself and the residents and fellows with whom I care for patients. To foster is to promote the growth or development of something. Thus, this chapter is about reconnecting with a basic interest, that was perhaps deemed peripheral to the practice and work life of an oncologist.
