The Perfect Poem for Hard Times: Lin-Manuel Miranda's Sonnet

After the tragic events in Orlando, Florida yesterday, the many people involved with the Tony Awards had a difficult decision to make. Should they postpone the show, as was done with the Emmys in the wake of 9/11? Or should they go ahead with the show and the telecast? If they decided to do the show, how could they strike the balance between celebrating Broadway while also acknowledging the grief that the nation was feeling?

Fortunately, at least from my point of view, the Tony Awards did go forward and found the right tone. This was due, in large part, to many of the speeches. From host James Corden's opening at the very beginning of the telecast (with him and the awards show audience facing the camera) to Frank Langella's acceptance speech for his best actor in a play, the Tonys showcased not just the immense talent found on Broadway but also the kindness and compassion that many theatre people have. Additionally, and in contrast with some of the horrible things that people were saying online after the shootings, the show highlighted the ability of words to heal and provide comfort during times of despair.

As a poetry lover, I found Lin-Manuel Miranda's acceptance speech for best score particularly moving. Done in sonnet form and directed to his wife, Miranda, as he often does, found a way to make his message moving on a public and personal level.

My wife’s the reason anything gets done

She nudges me towards promise by degrees

She is a perfect symphony of one

Our son is her most beautiful reprise.

We chase the melodies that seem to find us

Until they’re finished songs and start to play

When senseless acts of tragedy remind us

That nothing here is promised, not one day.

This show is proof that history remembers

We lived through times when hate and fear seemed stronger;

We rise and fall and light from dying embers, remembrances that hope and love last longer

And love is love is love is love is love is love is love is love cannot be killed or swept aside.

I sing Vanessa’s symphony, Eliza tells her story

Now fill the world with music, love and pride.