April is National Poetry Month, a time to honor the influence, beauty, and strength of poetry in our lives. According to poets.org, since its founding by the Academy of American Poets in 1996, National Poetry Month has expanded to become the world’s greatest literary event, encouraging readers of all ages to interact creatively and innovatively with literature.
Poetry is more than simply a kind of art; it’s a way to express oneself, an entry point into society, and an access point to feelings and experiences that are not limited by space or time.
Poetry has the power to tell tales, inspire movements, and communicate deep truths through rhythm, metaphor, and imagery. Poetry is a powerful reminder of the power of words at a time where digital media thrives in communication.
Participating in National Poetry Month and enjoying poetry can be done in a variety of ways. You have the option to engage with a poem every day from a podcast, an online poetry archive, or a book.
You can experience the spoken word by going to a poetry reading at a coffee shop, library, or bookstore. Another wonderful way to celebrate is to write your own poetry, whether it be in free verse or more conventional forms like sonnets and haiku. While going to a poetry exhibit or museum provides a more in-depth historical perspective, sharing poetry on social media with hashtags like #NationalPoetryMonth and #Poetry2025 spreads the love of poetry.
Additionally, sharing poetry all day long is encouraged by taking part in Poem in Your Pocket Day on April 24, 2025. “On PIYP Day, select a poem, carry it with you, and share it with others at schools, bookstores, libraries, parks, workplaces, coffee shops, street corners, and on social media using the hashtag #PocketPoem,” said The League of Canadian Poets (poets.ca).
Another great time for teachers to use poetry in the classroom is during National Poetry Month. Teachers can inspire students to perform spoken word pieces, produce poetry, and evaluate well-known works.
According to the article “April is National Poetry Month, and our democracy needs her poets” on fulcrum.com, “to help teachers in bringing poetry to life for students, several groups, such as the Academy of American Poets, provide free resources and lesson ideas.”
We acknowledge the ability of poetry to inspire, heal, and bring people together as we commemorate National Poetry Month in 2025. This month provides an opportunity to interact meaningfully with poetry, regardless of whether you have always loved it or are only now discovering its delights. Let April serve as a time to appreciate the infinite creativity and beauty of language.
