World Poetry Day 2024

World Poetry Day 2024: Theme

Theme: “Standing on the Shoulders of Giants”
Significance: Honors iconic writers whose works enlarged poetry’s footprint across cultures
Purpose: Spotlights young poets building on past foundations

History of World Poetry Day:

• Poetry, a form of literature that evokes feelings and emotions, is believed to have originated with the “Epic of Gilgamesh” around 2000 B.C.
• Various types of poetry have emerged over time, from sonnets to rap lyrics, all aiming to explore the human condition and evoke emotion through words.
• World Poetry Day is celebrated annually on March 21st to honor this universal form of expression.
• Poetry has a rich history, reflecting societal changes while maintaining its core purpose of exploring human experiences and emotions through words.
• UNESCO adopted World Poetry Day in 1999 during its 30th General Conference in Paris to promote poetry movements globally and preserve endangered languages.
• The day encourages the celebration of poets, past and present, revives oral traditions of reciting poetry, and promotes the reading, writing, and teaching of poetry.
• Poetry is often intertwined with other art forms like music, dance, and painting, enhancing its impact and reach.

World Poetry Day Significance:

• Provides a platform to recognize and celebrate the contributions of poets.
• Promotes the diversity of poetry and celebrates unique voices from different cultures.
• Reminds us of the importance of poetry in shaping society and culture.
• Promotes poetry as a platform for expression, creativity, and communication.
• Encourages understanding and appreciation among different cultures.

World Poetry Day 2024: Activities

• Readings: Organize poetry readings
• Writing: Encourage writing and sharing of poems
• Cultural Events: Host cultural events related to poetry
• Exhibitions: Showcase poetry-related exhibitions
• Educational Programs: Sponsor educational programs to promote poetry and language understanding

Quotes on Poetry:

• “All poets, all writers are political. They either maintain the status quo, or they say, ’Something’s wrong, let’s change it for the better.’” —Sonia Sanchez
• “Genuine poetry can communicate before it is understood.” —T.S. Eliot
• “Anon, who wrote so many poems without signing them, was often a woman.” —Virginia Woolf
• “Poetry and beauty are always making peace. When you read something beautiful you find coexistence; it breaks walls down.” —Mahmoud Darwish

Conclusion:

                Poetry is a unique and beautiful way of expressing feelings and ideas.It has a rich history, reflecting changes in society.World Poetry Day celebrates the diversity of poetry and its power to connect people across cultures.It is a day to appreciate the beauty of language and the impact of poetry on society.