Poetry can help us connect to other people’s experiences or even connect us to our own emotions. It can encourage us to think and reflect beyond the words that we read on a page. 

From haikus for kids to a Shakespearian sonnet that was written hundreds of years ago, there’s a wide variety of poetry that you can enjoy. Let Calgary Public Library guide you on your poetry journey — find some helpful pointers below. 

Explore Poetry that’s Popular in Calgary 

Our community loves reading poetry — with both digital and physical books being checked out at the Library. Some of the most popular works include themes like nature, motherhood, and love. 

Local poetry is also popular amongst readers. Calgary poets such as Josie Balka, Wakefield Brewster, Sheri-D Wilson, and Rosemary Griebel are able to connect well with their local audience. You can find these authors and books written by other Alberta authors in our Local Poetry Greatness booklist.

To find a style of poetry or topic that resonates with you, you can try reading an anthology like The Wonder of Small Things: Poems of Peace & Renewal. A variety of poets and poems are featured, and you might end up surprised by what speaks to you. 

Pro Tip: Read Poetry Aloud 

If you are new to poetry, it can be challenging to understand what you are reading. We suggest reading poetry out loud to start. When we are able to hear words, it helps us interpret the vocabulary, sentence structure, and grammar of the text. 

Give it a Try: Write Your Own Poem 

Once you start reading poetry, you may want to give it a try yourself. It can help you express yourself in a unique and creative way. Plus, it’s something both kids and adults can do! 

Watch the video below to learn how to write a poem that connects your emotions to your senses.