BOOKS

Poetry gives us a way to express ourselves, share our emotions with others and be heard. From T-Swift's poetic albums (did someone say Folklore?) to Amanda Gorman's powerful verses (still obsessed with her Inauguration Day reading, tbh), we can find poetry in *so* many places. This National Poetry Month, unlock the writer inside of you and celebrate the beauty of poems. Here's how...

1. Add a powerful poetry collection to your bookshelf

@alexandravasiliupoetry

Poetry books can be filled with raw, beautiful poems that connect with readers on a deeper level. Whether you're interested in books about self-reflection such as Healing Is a Gift or anthologies by diverse young poets such as On the Other Side of Everything, there's a poetry book that suits every taste. Each genre is different, so exposing yourself to as much poetry as possible will help you find your fave style.

2. Follow poetry accounts on Insta

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by s.r.w poetry (@srwpoetry)

If you want to read powerful poems as you're scrolling through your socials, look no further than the incredible #poetryofinstagram community. By following poets such as Rupi Kaur and Aija Mayrock, you can enjoy the beauty of poetry year-round and add some wise words to your Instagram feed. Also, you might just get some caption ideas for your own pics!

3. Go to a local poetry slam or reading event (and even participate!)

@girlswritenow

In every city, you can find poetry readings at cafes, schools and other venues. Poetry slams have a welcoming atmosphere and are a great place to hear up-and-coming poets (and maybe even debut your own work). You can bring your friends along and make a poetry slam a fun event that you all can enjoy. Though poetry can be a way to self-reflect, it also can help you connect with others. What better way to celebrate National Poetry Month than by meeting up with fellow poetry enthusiasts?

4. Start a poetry journal

Poetry can be a great way to destress, release emotions and sort through your thoughts in a creative space. To get inspired for your new journal, scroll through Pinterest, jot down inspiring quotes (yep, those T-Swift lyrics *do* count) and gather some art supplies. If no ideas come to mind, check out poetry prompts online and consider writing a short-form poem such as a haiku. Then, take a step outside and pen whatever comes to your mind.

5. Submit your poetry to literary magazines and poetry websites

@shesthefirst

Once you get more comfortable with writing poems, consider sharing them with the world. From your school newspaper to a national literary publication, there are many places to submit your work. Some amazing online platforms that accept submissions from young writers are She's the First's GirlTalk Blog, Skipping Stones, The WEIGHT Journal and Rising Poets Community. You can also start your own poetry Instagram page and create aesthetic images using Canva. Who knows? You might become the next viral poet!

Even after National Poetry Month ends, you can stay involved with poetry year-round. When you're listening to your Spotify playlists or flipping through your fave novels, you'll start to notice that poetry really is all around you. Most importantly, poetry is inside of you—if you take the time to connect with your inner poet.

Let us know your fave poet on Twitter @girlslifemag!

Top and slider image: @amandascgorman

by Camille Campbell | 4/14/2023