April is here, and with it comes the celebration of Poetry Month! If you're a poetry lover, this is the perfect time to immerse yourself in verses that move you. Pick up a collection from one of your favorite poets or discover new voices that speak to your soul.
What is Poetry?
Poetry is a literary form that weaves imagery, rhythm, and emotion to create powerful expressions of thought and feeling. There are many styles of poetry, each offering a unique way to convey meaning. Here are just a few:
- Allegory – A story with two levels of meaning: one explicit and one symbolic.
- Ballad – A narrative poem, often sung or passed down orally.
- Fable – A short tale featuring talking animals or objects, usually with a moral lesson (think Aesop and La Fontaine).
- Hymn – A lyrical poem praising a person, idea, or deep emotion (yes, the Canadian national anthem is poetry!).
- Ode – A formal, often meditative poem on a profound subject.
- Parody – A playful imitation of another poem.
- Satire – A witty or critical take on a subject, often with social commentary.
- Acrostic – A poem where the first letters of each line spell out a word or phrase.
- Slam Poetry – A dynamic, spoken-word performance that stirs emotion, with or without music.
- And many more…
Why Write Poetry?
If you've ever considered writing poetry, now is the time! Poetry is not only a creative outlet but also a powerful tool for self-expression and emotional healing. Writing poetry has been shown to help process emotions, relieve stress, and enhance self-awareness. Whether you're capturing a fleeting moment or working through a tough situation, poetry can be a source of comfort and clarity.
Join the Celebration
Want to explore poetry further? Check out these exciting programs happening this month:
- Click, Clack, Ding, Zing! Typewriter Poetry Type-In – Experience the charm of old-school poetry writing.
- Film Screening: Higher Than Flames Will Go – A poetic film experience.
- Poetry Circle – Share and discuss poetry with fellow enthusiasts.
Poetry Picks for You
For those who can't get enough of poetic beauty, we've curated a selection of must-read poetry books. Treat yourself to a literary feast and enjoy the magic of words!
Happy National Poetry Month!
List created by Ottawa Public Library Librarians
