World Poetry Day

World Poetry Day is an international holiday dedicated to the art of poetry. Poems and other forms of poetry have accompanied humans for thousands of years. They allow you to enjoy the beauty of language, delve into the depths of your soul, and experience special emotions! The holiday is every year on March 21.

History

World Poetry Day was established in 1999. The initiative was proposed by UNESCO. The main goal is to encourage poetic expression, preserve endangered languages (writing works will do a great job at that), and motivate people to read more!

The first poetic creations appeared as early as the 23rd century B.C. Researchers call the first poetess/writer a priestess and Akkadian princess, whose name was Enheduanna. Her poems were carved on special stone tablets discovered in archaeological excavations in Iraq. The excavations were not so long ago—in the 1920s.

Poetry opens the way to the heart of the author. By reading works from different eras, you can feel the atmosphere of the time and become acquainted with the social attitudes and culture characteristic of the period. All this the authors absorbed in themselves and transmitted to people through their poetic works.

Interesting facts

• There are many forms of poetry: ballad, sonnet, haiku, and epic, among others.
• The emperor of China named Qianlong (18th century) executed all poets who wrote sad works. Perhaps he perceived their negative message as an insult to his rule.
• Francesco Petrarch is considered one of the most amorous poets. He dedicated his sonnets to his beloved Laura and continued to write them even after she was married.

How to celebrate

Read the poetry of your favorite authors on this day! Discover the poetic creations of authors from different countries. Try to choose one era to compare the ability of the poets to masterfully convey the atmosphere of the writing period in their works! Read the poems with your children, engage their interest, and introduce them to the wonderful world of poetry.

Tell about World Poetry Day on social networks. Ask other users who their favorite poet is.

When is World Poetry Day in 2025?

World Poetry Day is observed on March 21 each year.

Observations