The Belfast Librarian Who Said Van’S Lyrics Taught Her More About Poetry Than Any Book

April 2, 2025

In the heart of Belfast, nestled between the cobblestone streets and the vibrant cafés, there was a library filled with more than just books. It was a place where stories came alive, where words danced off pages and twirled into the minds of those who visited. Among the shelves, there was a librarian named Margaret, a woman with a gentle spirit and a passion for the written word. Every day, she would help children find their next adventure, but it was her own journey with the lyrics of Van Morrison that truly transformed her understanding of poetry.

One rainy afternoon, as the wind howled outside and raindrops tapped against the windows like a soft lullaby, Margaret stumbled upon a collection of Van Morrison’s songs. At first, they seemed just like music, but as she read through the lyrics, she felt something stir within her. Each line was woven with rich imagery and emotion, telling stories of love, loss, and the beauty of everyday moments. It was as if Morrison had handed her a key to a secret garden of poetic expression that no textbook had ever revealed.

Margaret couldn’t help but share her discovery with the children who frequented the library. She organized small gatherings, where she would read Van’s lyrics aloud, letting the words resonate in the air like a warm embrace. The children listened, captivated by the rhythm and the stories behind the songs. They began to see poetry not just as something to be studied, but as a living, breathing art form that could capture their own experiences and feelings. This sparked a creativity in them that they never knew existed, with some even taking to writing their own verses inspired by Morrison’s music.

As Margaret delved deeper into Morrison’s work, she learned about the artist himself—his humble beginnings in Belfast, his rise to fame, and the struggles he faced along the way. Despite the fame and recognition, he remained true to his roots, creating music that spoke to the soul. This resilience inspired Margaret, reminding her that passion can fuel even the toughest of journeys. She admired how he poured his heart into every note, reminding her that poetry could be found in every moment of joy and sorrow.

One day, during a special event at the library, a local band performed some of Van Morrison’s greatest hits. The room pulsed with energy as familiar melodies filled the air. As she stood in the back, watching the children sing along with beaming smiles on their faces, Margaret felt a sense of fulfillment wash over her. She realized that it wasn’t just about the lyrics; it was about connection—the ability to bridge gaps between generations through the power of words and music.

Years later, Margaret would often reflect on that rainy afternoon when she first discovered Van Morrison’s lyrics. That moment had changed her, transformed her understanding of poetry, and opened the door to endless creativity for the children of Belfast. Inspired by the artist’s journey, she continued to encourage her community to find their own voices, showing them that whether through music or poetry, everyone has a story worth telling. And like Van, they could learn to share it with the world, one line at a time.