Every April, poets and lovers of art and literature honor National Poetry Month, organized by the Academy of American Poets in 1996.
Poetry is known for being an art form that combines literary techniques with emotional and aesthetic appeals to create works that cause readers to FEEL. There is no singular correct way to write a poem, which has allowed poets across the world since the beginning of time to create a vast array of works.
The United States has a resident poet laureate who is appointed by the Librarian of Congress. The poet laureate is charged with the mission to raise national awareness and appreciation for both writing and absorbing poetry.
The current poet laureate is Juan Felipe Herrera, the country’s first chicano poet laureate. For a time, Herrera lived in the San Joaquin Valley. He is a graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles and has also earned two graduate degrees from Stanford University and the University of Iowa. Herrera has not only been involved in writing poetry but in using poetry in anti-bullying projects and community service.
Anyone can be a poet, though it is typically known for being the hardest branch of literature to comprehend and create. Despite the challenges and misconceptions people face regarding poetry, those that value it are deeply passionate and love celebrating the art and language of poetry.
Brandon Gunnarson, a Ripon High School senior, shared some insight on why he believes poetry is valuable.
“Poetry is an avenue of expression, a communication of ideas, and an art form where a soul is on display for all to see,” said Gunnarson.
“This can be absolutely [terrifying], but every once in awhile a poem will bring two souls together through some words on a page and they will realize they are not alone. This is why poetry is important.”
For the past few years, Ripon High School has partnered with Ripon’s public library to create The Poetry Cafe, an annual event held at the public library. The Poetry Cafe is open to all students and community members that want to spend about an hour sitting and listening to poetry or reading some of their favorite works, either self-authored or from other poets. It’s an event designed to be safe, supportive, and celebratory.
If you would like to participate in this event, all you have to do is show up! If you cannot attend, still celebrate poetry this month for the beautiful art form it is.
