Introduction to American Poetry
American poetry is literature written by Americans, in the English language. It includes both formal and informal works, with a focus on expressing everyday emotions and feelings. American poets use a variety of poetic styles to explore universal themes of joy, loss, love, and life’s struggles. They write about topics that align with the spirit of their nation, such as freedom, democracy, and justice. Famous poets such as Walt Whitman, Robert Frost, and Emily Dickinson began the poetic tradition in America.
Early American Poets
In the early 18th century, American literature began to develop with the works of poets like Anne Bradstreet and Edward Taylor. Bradstreet developed a distinct style of writing, which was a mix of classical and religious subjects. Her poem, “To my dear and loving Husband,” is regarded as one of her most celebrated poems and has been widely studied. Taylor, a Puritan minister, developed a style of poetry that was simple and direct. His works discussed themes such as relativity, mortality and divinity.
19th Century American Poets
In the 19th century, Walt Whitman and Edgar Allan Poe began to form and develop modern American poetry. Whitman’s work represented a break from the traditional form of poetry, and he wrote with an informal, colloquial style. His salient works of poetry include “Song of Myself” and “Leaves of Grass.” Poe, on the other hand, pursued a more melancholic and formal approach. He wrote dark and disturbing poems, such as “The Raven,” “The Lake” and “Annabel Lee.” Both poets established particular stylistic techniques that would become staples of writing for many to come.
20th Century American Poets
The 20th century brought about a different approach to American poetry, which included poets like Robert Frost and Emily Dickinson. Frost wrote about rural New England, describing the details of everyday life with a concise style and sharp eye. His works often cross the boundaries between poetry and gossip. Dickinson focused on universal, metaphysical topics, using a unique and complex style of writing. Her famous works include “I died for beauty,” and “Because I could not stop for Death.”
21st Century American Poets
In the 21st century, American poetry is still developing and changing. To this day, numerous famous names, such as Langston Hughes, Mary Oliver, and poet laureate W.S. Merwin are paving the way for future poets and continuing the legacy that Whitman, Frost, and Dickinson started. Hughes used jazz and blues to express the everyday struggles and joys of African Americans. Oliver used nature as a lens for her works, writing about the beauty and fragility of life. Merwin used everyday language in his poetry to explore the relationship between humans, nature, and the divine.
Influence on Other Genres
American poets have in turn inspired many other genres, such as hip hop music, literature, and fiction. For example, rappers like Jay-Z, Kanye West and Kendrick Lamar have often cited the work of Hughes in their lyrics. This showcases the power of poetry and its ability to transcend boundaries and bring people together.
Analysis of American Poetry
At its core, American poetry is a distinct blend of classic and modern styles, allowing poets to express themselves in unique ways. It is full of emotion and can often guide us to a better understanding of ourselves and the world. As poet laureate Robert Hayden once said, “Poetry is not a turning loose of emotion, but an escape from emotion; it is not the expression of personality, but an escape from personality.”
Impact on Society
American poetry has had a huge impact on understanding within our society. By putting rational thoughts into poetic form, it has helped bridge the gap between anger, hatred, and understanding. By focusing on everyday struggles, joys, and emotions, it has helped bring about a more civil language and a way for individuals to find solace through the written word.
Education and Encouragement of Upcoming Poets
In order to encourage the practice of poetry, many organizations such as The Academy of American Poets have been created. The Academy offers free materials to teachers and trainers and sponsors numerous poetry contests and awards. It also awards grants and fellowships to emerging poets, and funds an annual National Poetry Month in April to celebrate the importance of poetry in our society.
Influence of New Media on Poetry
The development of new media platforms such as Instagram, Youtube, and Twitter have brought about a surge of popularity for poetry. By making access to poetry more accessible and providing a platform for poets to share their work practically anywhere, new media has provided a space for individuals and aspiring poets to reach wider audiences.
Adaptation and Expansion of Poetry
Modern technology has allowed for the adaptation and expansion of poetry by enabling poets to use visuals, music, and animation to express their work in creative ways. For example, spoken word poems, a form of poetry where spoken words are used to illustrate a story, have recently become very popular online. Additionally, poets are beginning to experiment with new digital tools and apps to bring their work alive.
Contributions of Poets to Today’s Society
The rise of American poetry has allowed us to express and unpack our worries and concerns in constructive ways. It has not only given us a way to find catharsis through the written word, but has also allowed us to look at our lives from a different perspective. By reading the works of great poets, we can gain insight and inspiration to find new solutions to problems, and use our own voices to contribute to the betterment of our society.
