Inspired by: "The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie" (1969)

Every once in a while, a movie comes along that touches a person deeply and inspires him or her to create art in honor of the art. And, for me,The Prime of Miss Jean Brodieis one of those films.

The below poem is based on the critically-acclaimed 1969 movie, The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie. And, I wrote it sometime last year, shortly after seeing the film:

“The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie”

ode:

A kind of poem devoted to the praise of a person, animal, or thing. An ode is usually written in an elevated style and often expresses deep feeling. An example is “ Ode on a Grecian Urn,” by John Keats.

The American Heritage® New Dictionary of Cultural Literacy, Third Edition.

Some people say that you’re no good,

so, perhaps I like you more than I should?

But, Miss Jean Brodie,

I shall stay,

and repent my sins another day.

That is to say,

if you’re no good,                                                               

I like you more than others would.

 

You mention that you’re in your prime,

you say it’s such a special time,

you tell your girls when they get older,

they’ll know love and they’ll live bolder.

 

Some people say that you’re no good,

so perhaps I like you more than it should?

Dear Miss Brodie, teach me how,

to be myself,

an upper brow,

To know the world of which you speak,

to know when I am at my peak,

To nurture every special whim,

to be like you,

“the crème de la crème”

 

From you, I’ll learn the truth in me,

although you’re an authority,

your peers claim you abuse your power,

but above such petty talk you tower,

it’s not your fault what others see,

they’re blind to your nobility,

honestly, I think you’re great,

you make me want to celebrate!

 

Truth, love, and beauty you teach,

and yes, you practice what you preach,

and though you clash much with the school,

it’s only cause you’re no one’s fool.

 

I’m sorry you got ratted out,

I believe your girls, you cared about,

Sandy was a frightful child,

Took off her clothes, and acted wild,

some say like you,

but I protest!

Her motives ought to be undressed!

But you meant well,

that made you right,

at least your heart was free of spite.

And, still some say that you’re no good,

so perhaps I like you more than I should?

~Inspired by the 1969 film, “The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie”, and dedicated to its Oscar-winning star, the beautiful Dame Maggie Smith!

I actually mailed this to Dame Maggie herself, along with a letter letting her know how much her performance in the film touched me! I may have also mentioned the  website I created in her honor.

A few months later, I received a nice note from her secretary that was sent on her behalf. And, I also received an autographed Jean Brodie photo, which I will share with everyone soon.