Famous Poets to Start Your Poetry Journey
Do you love poetry? Or maybe you’re just starting to get into it and are looking for some guidance. Either way, we’ve got you covered. Today, we will introduce you to some of the most famous poets of all time. These writers have inspired people for centuries with their beautiful words and unique perspectives on the world. So sit back, relax, and prepare to be transported into a new world of poetry with these gateway poets.
Maya Angelou
Firstly, we have one of the most renowned and celebrated poets of our time. She is best known for her autobiography, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, which details her early life growing up in the South during the Jim Crow era. However, Angelou was also an accomplished poet. In fact, she wrote the poem “Still I Rise” in response to a negative review of her work. This powerful poem is an anthem of hope and resilience, and it’s one that you should check out.
Emily Dickinson
Next up is Emily Dickinson, who is considered one of the most important American poets. Dickinson was a prolific writer, but only a handful of her poems were published during her lifetime. Her poetry is characterized by its use of slant rhyme and unconventional capitalization, and it often deals with themes of death and immortality. Dickinson is also worth reading if you’re interested in exploring different poetic styles rather than sticking to just one.
Walt Whitman
Walt Whitman is another important American poet, and he’s often considered one of the country’s most important writers. Whitman is best known for his collection Leaves of Grass, which was first published in 1855. The book was controversial at the time because of its frank discussion of sexual themes, but it’s now considered one of the most important American poetry collections. Whitman’s work is often described as “free verse,” and he was one of the first poets to use this style of writing. Whitman’s poetry is also noted for its focus on nature and the common man, and his work has influenced many other poets and writers.
Margaret Atwood’
Next, we have Margaret Atwood. Atwood is a Canadian writer who is best known for her novels, but she also writes poetry. Her work often focuses on feminist and environmental themes, and she is considered one of the most important Canadian writers. Atwood has won many awards, including the Governor General’s Award and the Giller Prize.
William Blake
Moving across to the UK now, we have William Blake. Blake was a writer and artist who is considered a critical figure of the Romantic Movement. His work often dealt with themes of religion and morality, and he was known for his unique style of poetry. Blake’s work was not widely appreciated during his lifetime, but he is now considered one of the most important British poets.
Carol Ann Duffy
Lastly, Carol Ann Duffy is a Scottish poet and playwright, and she has been the UK’s Poet Laureate since 2009. Duffy’s work is known for its accessible language and feminist themes. She has won numerous awards, including the Forward Prize and the Queen’s Gold Medal for Poetry. Duffy’s poetry is widely studied in schools and universities, and she is one of the most popular contemporary poets.
These are just a few of the many famous poets that you can explore. By reading their work, you can gain a better understanding of what poetry is and how it can be used to express thoughts and emotions. So, start your journey today by picking up a book of poems that includes some of these poetry icons.