Poetry
Poetry uses expressive language, rhythm, and form to convey emotions, ideas, or stories in verse.
Leaves of Grass
by Walt Whitman
Leaves of Grass is Walt Whitman’s life work: a revolutionary poetry collection celebrating individuality, nature, democracy, and the human spirit. With free verse and vivid imagery, Whitman captures the vitality of 19th-century America and the transcendence of the self. Constantly revised over his lifetime, it includes iconic poems like “Song of Myself.” It’s a lyrical, sensual, and philosophical exploration of being, unbound by traditional poetic form.
The Canterbury Tales
Written in Middle English during the 14th century, The Canterbury Tales follows a group of pilgrims on their journey to Canterbury, each sharing a story to entertain their fellow travelers. Through tales of love, greed, chivalry, and trickery, Chaucer paints a vivid and satirical portrait of medieval society. The collection is celebrated for its diverse voices, rich characterizations, and enduring insight into human nature.
Counting Descent
by Clint Smith
In 'Counting Descent' by Clint Smith, readers are taken on a poignant and powerful journey through themes of race, identity, and history. Through a collection of poems, Smith delves into the complexities of growing up as a Black man in America, exploring the interplay of personal experiences and broader societal narratives. His words are raw, evocative, and thought-provoking, leaving a deep impact on anyone who reads them. Smith skillfully weaves together the past and present, shedding light on the persistent effects of systemic racism and the quest for belonging and understanding. 'Counting Descent' is a compelling and necessary work that challenges readers to confront uncomfortable truths and inspires critical reflection.
The Sun and Her Flowers
by Rupi Kaur
In 'The Sun and Her Flowers' by Rupi Kaur, the poet weaves a beautiful tapestry of emotions, exploring themes of love, loss, healing, and empowerment. Divided into five sections, the book takes the readers on a journey through the stages of wilting, falling, rooting, rising, and blooming, mirroring the phases of life and personal growth. Kaur's raw and evocative poetry coupled with simple yet profound illustrations make this collection a compelling read that resonates with a wide audience. The poems touch on universal experiences with a refreshing honesty and vulnerability, offering solace and inspiration. 'The Sun and Her Flowers' is a captivating and poignant work that lingers in the heart long after reading.
Brown Girl Dreaming
In 'Brown Girl Dreaming' by Jacqueline Woodson, readers are immersed in a mesmerizing memoir written in verse. The book delves into Woodson's childhood experiences, depicting her journey as an African American girl growing up in the 1960s and 1970s. Through vivid poetry, Woodson beautifully captures the complexities of race, family, and identity, offering a poignant exploration of self-discovery and finding one's voice. With lyrical language and heartfelt storytelling, 'Brown Girl Dreaming' is a powerful and inspiring read that resonates with readers of all ages.
Letters to a Young Poet
Rainer Maria Rilke's 'Letters to a Young Poet' is a profound collection of letters written by the author to a young aspiring poet. In these ten letters, Rilke imparts wisdom on creativity, solitude, love, and finding one's true calling. The book delves into the essence of art, the importance of introspection, and the beauty of embracing one's own unique voice. Rilke's poetic and insightful prose resonates with readers, offering both solace and encouragement to those navigating the turbulent waters of creativity and self-discovery. 'Letters to a Young Poet' is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and ignite the creative spark in readers of all ages.
The Emperor of Gladness
by Ocean Vuong
Ocean Vuong's The Emperor of Gladness is a poignant novel that follows Hai, a 19-year-old Vietnamese American grappling with trauma and addiction. After a chance encounter with Grazina, an elderly woman with dementia, Hai finds unexpected companionship and purpose. Set in East Gladness, Connecticut, the story explores themes of identity, resilience, and the healing power of human connection. Vuong's lyrical prose delves into the complexities of marginalized lives, offering a heartfelt narrative about finding hope and meaning amidst adversity.
On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous
by Ocean Vuong
Ocean Vuong's 'On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous' is a remarkable and poignant exploration of identity, family, love, and the complexities of human connections. The novel is written as a letter from a son to his illiterate mother, delving into their shared history as Vietnamese immigrants in America. Vuong's lyrical prose weaves together themes of trauma, queerness, and generational trauma with breathtaking beauty and raw honesty. Through vivid imagery and poetic language, the book captures the struggles of navigating cultural divides and the search for acceptance and understanding. 'On Earth We're Briefly Gorgeous' is a deeply moving and profound work that lingers in the reader's mind long after the final page.