Maris Grove resident writes book of poetry during pandemic
Carl Koch, a resident of Maris Grove, an Erickson Living senior living community in Glen Mills, Delaware County, enjoys an active lifestyle. He and his wife, Nancy, keep busy with all types of activities, including card games, movies, live theater, crafts, and getting together with friends.
In March, to pass the time during Pennsylvania’s stayat-home order, Carl started writing poems and discovered his passion for creative writing. Since he wrote so many poems, he decided to self-publish a book titled “Pandemic Poet: Passing the time during lockdown,” which is available on Amazon.com and other online bookstores.
The first 15 poems describe significant and humorous events in the life of the author and his family. They include their wedding, holiday memories, trips, work experiences and hobbies.
The next eight poems are about the COVID-19 virus and its impact on society and life. It also includes a poem written from the perspective of the virus itself.
The 14 poems in the chapter titled “Things” describe sports, games, butterflies, feathers and an accidental encounter between a dog and a frog. The final four poems consist of prayers and inspirational writings.
The poems have received a great response from family, friends and neighbors. Some of the poems have been shared on Maris Grove’s community TV station as well as Carl’s Facebook page.
“I want to thank my wife Nancy, who was an inspiration for many of my poems,” Carl said. “She also was an indispensable help in reading and proofreading my poems. I also want to acknowledge the TV station here at Maris Grove for including some of my poems in a poetry reading program.
“Writing the poems about my childhood memories and real-life adventures was almost like writing my autobiography. I enjoy receiving comments from family and friends after posting my poems of shared experiences.”
Carl, a retired environmental engineer, received his Ph.D. from the University of Pennsylvania.
He plans on publishing his second book of poems next year.
About Maris Grove: Maris Grove, one of 20 continuing care retirement communities developed and managed by Erickson Living, is situated on a scenic 87-acre campus in Glen Mills. The not-for-profit community of more than 1,900 residents and 1,000 employees is governed by its own board of directors, affiliated with National Senior Campuses, who provide independent financial and operational oversight of the community. Additional information about Maris Grove can be found at MarisGroveCommunity.com.