"it reminds me of how my father-in-law would take such pride in reciting, so passionately, certain poems like "The Rhyme of the Ancient Mariner". "

Interesting point Larry. My father could also recite long tracts of poetry, much of which he'd learnt from his schoolmaster's recitation at the age of 12. Funnily enough I, too, enjoy reciting those poems and many others. So does the 'folk process' apply to poetry? Good news for those who can't sing!