On August 25th 2017, Dongtan Global High School students had the chance to meet Na Tae-joo, a famous poet, at the viewing room of the school for about three hours from in the evening. The event was conducted under the title "The Book Concert with Na Tae-joo" and it proceeded colorfully with not only a lecture by Na Tae-joo, but also various performances by DGHS students.

Na Tae-joo is a poet who became famous for the poem, "Grass Flower," which was quoted in the drama 'School 2013'. He captured the hearts of the readers by his short and concise lines and unaffected everyday words.

The lecture of Na Tae-joo was conducted in a comfortable atmosphere. Na Tae-joo said he looks for his poem materials from the small things of everyday life. For example, Na Tae-joo explained how he could write his famous poem, "Grass Flower." He explained how he was the principal of an elementary school. One day, Na Tae-joo brought his students out of the classroom and had them to paint the view. Some of his students avoided painting grass flowers because they thought they were insignificant. Na Tae-joo wanted to make his students change their mind about simple things. Na Tae-joo thought that everything in the world is precious even though it may be small. Like this, Na Tae-joo has written his poems not about special things, but about importance of everyday life. He also said he was inspired by the passion of youth like DGHS students. He reminded the students to look back upon their lives and to cherish their youth.

This event was much more meaningful because it was led by students. DGHS students put in a lot of effort to prepare for the event. Students read the poems of Na Tae-joo, served as MCs for the event, prepared a video organized an instrumental performance and even had their own poetry reading.

Through his sincere lecture, Na Tae-joo touched the hearts of students who were hurt by many different causes. Students who participated in the event thought that the event was impressive because of the honesty and gentleness of Na Tae-joo.

This poem which Na Tae-joo and DGHS students read together at the end of the event will be long remembered in the minds of students.

“It takes a close look to find its beauty.
It takes a long look to find its love.
And so do you to find yours.”
(Na Tae-joo, Grass Flower)

By Eun-Che Jo
(DG reporter)