A heartfelt virtual gathering took place on July 29, 2023, to honor the life and work of poet Jane Greer, who passed away following health complications. Friends and admirers from across the United States came together to celebrate her contributions to poetry and to express their condolences to her family.
During the poetry reading, participants reflected on Greer’s deep connection to her faith and her creator. One attendee asked, “Do you think she was ready for the wonder of God?” The answer was a resounding “Of course she was!” This sentiment encapsulated the admiration many held for Greer, who was often regarded as one of the greatest living American poets.
Living in North Dakota, Greer had a profound impact on those who encountered her work. Although many of her fans could not attend her funeral Mass, they sought to express their gratitude for her life and artistry. They gathered not only to grieve but also to reassure her husband and son of their support during this challenging time.
Greer’s poetry often explored themes of divine love and human experience. One of her collections, titled “Love like a Conflagration,” serves as a testament to her unique voice. In a notable excerpt, she writes about the abundance of mercy available to humanity: “He’s never skimped on prophets since He breathed you / out of the mud and on your way to Heaven.”
Her work reflects a belief that divine love is an unconditional gift, one that cannot be earned or repaid. Instead, Greer invites readers to embrace this love in their imperfect lives. The poem “Micha-el” illustrates her view of love as powerful and transformative, comparing it to forces of nature: “Love like an avalanche, a midnight bomb-blast, / finding you hidden.”
During the memorial, Emily Stimpson Chapman described Greer’s poetry as “rich and gorgeous, full of wisdom, clarity, and truth.” Chapman noted how Greer’s understanding of reality and her faith imbued her writing with substance and depth.
The virtual gathering also provided an opportunity for attendees to share smiles and moments of joy, reminiscent of witnessing a new beginning. Participants described the experience as akin to holding a newborn or attending a joyful wedding. Jane Greer’s poetry not only reflected her joy but also inspired others to seek that same joy in their lives.
The event was organized by Kathryn Jean Lopez, a senior fellow at the National Review Institute and editor-at-large for National Review. Lopez emphasized the importance of community and shared remembrance, highlighting that Greer’s legacy would continue to live on through her impactful words.
As friends and admirers continue to reflect on Jane Greer’s life and work, her poetry serves as a reminder of the beauty that can arise from love, faith, and shared experiences. Through her writings, Greer has left an enduring mark on the literary world, inviting readers to explore the depth of their own emotional and spiritual journeys.
