In honor of Poets’ Day today, we present five poets whose work young readers can explore to dive into the world of poetry.
British publisher William Sieghart, a strong advocate for poetry, once said, “I want people to read poetry on the bus, on their way to work, in the street, in school and in the pub.” Sieghart, who established August 21 as National Poet’s Day in 1994, believes poetry has the power to comfort people in both joyous and difficult times. To celebrate this day, we highlight five poets with diverse styles that can inspire young readers.
Angelou’s poems are celebrated for their messages of resilience and empowerment. Her writing, which emerged during the Civil Rights Movement, addresses themes of overcoming adversity and finding strength. Her powerful lines, such as “Out of the huts of history’s shame, I rise,” provide young readers with both historical insight and personal encouragement.
Recommended Poem: Still, I Rise
Vikram Seth
Seth is known for his rhythmic and metrical verses, which make his poetry particularly engaging when read aloud. His collection Beastly Tales from Here and There features modern takes on classic fables, showcasing his unique humor and timeless style. Seth’s playful approach to storytelling through poetry offers readers a delightful experience.
Recommended Poem: The Hare and the Tortoise
Amanda Gorman
At just 22, Gorman became the youngest poet to recite at a U.S. Presidential inauguration. Her poem The Hill We Climb is a beacon of hope and optimism. In her collection Call Us What We Carry, she experiments with different poetic structures, including shape poems, which can captivate young readers and spark their imagination.
Recommended Poem: The Hill We Climb
Arundhathi Subramaniam
Subramaniam’s poetry reflects on everyday life with keen observations and a touch of wit. Her poems capture scenes from various walks of life, from bustling streets to quiet moments at home. Her distinctive style brings her observations of cities, especially Mumbai, to vivid life.
Recommended Poem: 5.46, Andheri Local
Tishani Doshi
Doshi’s poetry often explores themes of family and the body. Her work, such as the poem Aj, Aged 15, is filled with rich imagery and personal reflections. Her poems transport readers to her Tamil Nadu home, offering an intimate look at her experiences and memories.
Recommended Poem: Aj, Aged 15