On October 26, 1963, just weeks before his assassination, John F. Kennedy traveled to Amherst College to commemorate the life of poet Robert Frost. Frost, who had recited “The Gift Outright” at Kennedy’s Inauguration, had died earlier that year at the age of eighty-eight. Kennedy praised Frost as “one of the granite figures of our time in America” and spoke to the importance of art in society.
A Legacy of Art and Power
Kennedy argued that “When power leads man towards arrogance, poetry reminds him of his limitations.” He believed art served as a crucial counterbalance to power, reminding humanity of its shared truths. This speech, drafted by historian Arthur Schlesinger, Jr., reflected the Kennedy administration’s effort to elevate the arts.
The Kennedys invited Pablo Casals to perform at the White House, and hosted performances by the American Ballet Theatre and the Paul Winter Sextet. A reception for forty-nine Nobel laureates saw Kennedy remark that the gathering was rivaled only by a dinner hosted by Thomas Jefferson.
A Name Change and Current Controversy
Years after Kennedy’s death, the national cultural center in Washington, D.C. was renamed in his honor. This week, the center’s name was changed again, now becoming the Donald J. Trump and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. The decision was made by a board now comprised of individuals described as loyalists, including Maria Bartiromo and Laura Ingraham, at the Palm Beach home of Steve Wynn.
The President claimed to be “surprised” by the decision, despite having previously hinted at the possibility. While the board asserted a unanimous vote, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty reported being muted during the meeting and then informed of the unanimous outcome. Members of the Kennedy family, including Maria Shriver, have expressed their disapproval.
This action occurred alongside other recent events, including remarks made by the President regarding a recent murder and disclosures from his chief of staff, Susie Wiles, regarding the Vice-President and the President’s own character.
Frequently Asked Questions
What did Kennedy say about the role of poetry?
Kennedy stated that “When power leads man towards arrogance, poetry reminds him of his limitations,” and that “When power corrupts, poetry cleanses.”
Who drafted Kennedy’s speech at Amherst College?
The speech was drafted by the historian and Kennedy confidant Arthur Schlesinger, Jr.
What changes were made to the Kennedy Center this week?
The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts was renamed the Donald J. Trump and the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
Given the recent events surrounding the Kennedy Center, how might this decision impact the institution’s future role in celebrating the arts and honoring cultural legacies?
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