Next week it will be April, and April is Poetry Month – we have one week to get ready! These resources are awesome whether you are a writer, a teacher, or just someone who wants to dive deeper into the world of verse. If you want to celebrate with your family or your class, consider building a mindful poetry moment ritual into the beginning of the day. We can release ourselves from the pressure to “get it” and simply ask, “what did that make us feel?” or “what images came to mind?” or “what word or phrase stood out?” Remember to relax. There are no wrong answers.
Poem-A-Day
Reading a wide range of poetry is the best way to discover your personal taste. When my students say they don’t like poetry, I tell them you just haven’t found the right poems for you. I promise they are out there! These websites lead you to a different poem everyday. Think of it as an opportunity to take a verbal breath of fresh air.
- https://poets.org/poem-a-day
- https://www.poetryfoundation.org/poems/poem-of-the-day
- https://www.yourdailypoem.com/
Poetry Podcasts
I love listening to poetry being read aloud, especially in my car. It is a wonderful way to start the day. All of these shows feature a well curated list of diverse poets being read by beautiful voices.
- https://onbeing.org/series/poetry-unbound/
- https://www.slowdownshow.org/
- https://www.npr.org/podcasts/634716401/poetry-moment
NaNoPoMo
NaPoWriMo, or National Poetry Writing Month, is an annual project in which participating poets attempt to write a poem a day for the month of April. It is inspired by the now shuttered National Novel Writing Month, NaNoWriMo. Here are some prompt resources to keep you pushing and plugging all month long.
- https://rattle.com/page/prompts/
- https://www.writersdigest.com/be-inspired/poetry-prompts-for-writers
- https://www.poetrypromptgenerator.com/
Live Reading Events
Of course the BEST way to experience poetry is live and in community with other poets! Here are some upcoming events in the DC area. Hope to see you there!
News and Reviews
My next book, PLAYBOOK FOR JUSTICE, is on the way. The release day is November 3rd. You can preorder from Bookshop.org, Barnes and Noble or Amazon now. Please request it at your local independent book store and your library. Pre-orders are a really important way to signal there is interest in this book, even before it goes to print. They will literally print more copies and try to sell them if there are pre-orders. Thank you in advance!
I have poems appearing in these journals and anthologies. Please consider buying a copy to support the publications and other artists.
Teacher Lesley 