Literature and poetry: Pleasure and practice

The value of a humanities perspective in the initial and continuing education of practising nurses and midwives is discussed briefly. It is suggested that nursing requires a blend of both science and sensitivity and that empirical knowledge alone is insufficient for one who cares for others. The value of literature in relation to the notions of catharsis, vicarious experience and insight into the lives of patients will be discussed. Some examples of literature that may be used to help nurses gain insight into aspects of death and dying, midwifery, physical disability and mental illness are presented.