National Poetry Month

Slide 1: Introduction

National Poetry Month, founded in 1996 by the Academy of American Poets,

celebrates the significance and beauty of poetry every April. It's now a
global literary event, aiming to engage people of all backgrounds in the
reading, writing, and appreciation of poetry.

Slide 2: Goals & History

Inspired by the success of Black History Month and Women's History Month,
National Poetry Month seeks to raise awareness and deepen appreciation
for poetry. Its goals include promoting accessibility to poetry and fostering a
sense of community among enthusiasts.

Slide 3: Impact & Activities

Throughout April, diverse activities such as readings, workshops, and poetry

slams engage audiences and highlight poetry's impact. National Poetry
Month has revitalized interest in poetry, providing a platform for both
established and emerging poets to connect with audiences worldwide.
Slide 4: Sarojini Naidu

Sarojini Naidu, an Indian poet and politician, was known as the "Nightingale
of India." Her poems celebrated the beauty of her homeland and its people,
reflecting themes of freedom, patriotism, and love. Works like "The Golden
Threshold" and "The Bird of Time" exemplify her lyrical talent and enduring
legacy.

Slide 5: Langston Hughes

Langston Hughes, a prominent figure of the Harlem Renaissance, captured

the African American experience with his poignant poetry. His works like
"The Negro Speaks of Rivers" and "Dreams Deferred" tackled themes of
identity, racism, and resilience, leaving a profound impact on American
literature.

Slide 6: Emily Dickinson

Emily Dickinson, an enigmatic poet of the 19th century, explored themes of

nature, mortality, and the human psyche. Her unconventional style and
introspective themes in poems like "Because I could not stop for Death" and
"I'm Nobody! Who are you?" continue to resonate with readers worldwide.
Slide 7: Pablo Neruda

Pablo Neruda, the Chilean Nobel laureate, crafted evocative poetry that
celebrated love, politics, and the beauty of everyday life. His collections such
as "Twenty Love Poems and a Song of Despair" and "Canto General"
showcase his mastery of language and ability to evoke profound emotions in
readers across cultures.

Slide 8: William Shakespeare

William Shakespeare, often regarded as the greatest playwright and poet in

the English language, continues to captivate readers and audiences
worldwide. His works, including sonnets and plays such as "Romeo and
Juliet" and "Hamlet," are celebrated for their timeless themes and masterful
language.

Slide 9: Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou was a prolific poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist whose
powerful words continue to resonate with readers. Her memoir "I Know
Why the Caged Bird Sings" and her poetry collections, such as "And Still I
Rise," have inspired generations with their messages of resilience,
empowerment, and hope.
Slide 10: William Wordsworth

William Wordsworth, a key figure in the Romantic movement, is renowned

for his lyrical poetry that celebrates nature, emotion, and the human
experience. His works, including "Lines Composed a Few Miles Above
Tintern Abbey" and "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud," explore themes of
beauty, imagination, and the sublime.