"I reckon memorizing poems is a stupid pasttime, but no worse than video games or watching football". FF

Excuse me? Memorizing poems a stupid pastime? I would not agree. "...like a hymn or a chant"...yes, rather. How lovely. That words can soothe and inspire, comfort and connect.

I think poetry is a little different from football and videogames! And since you are married to the woman to whom you recited all those words, it seems to have worked out well for you!