Why poetry books matter today. Themes of mindfulness, self-expression, resistance are needed in our world more than ever. Discover the most inspiring poetry books for every reader, from timeless classics to modern masterpieces
5 Must-Read Poetry Books That Will Stir Your Soul
Click here for 10 Classic Boks to Add to Your Reading List. Unlike that article, where the books focus on story and narrative over the beauty and rhythm of language, poetry mostly targets the opposite in function. As an English major whose focus in college was 19th century America poetry, I think I have some insights regarding the subject.
Classic Poetry Books That Still Resonate
Just getting started? The best poetry books for beginners is probably Walt Whitman’s Leaves of Grass (1855), featuring Song of Myself, which I named one of the best poems of all time. Whether you're a seasoned poetry lover or just beginning your journey, Leaves of Grass offers a moving, mind-expanding experience that resonates as deeply today as it did over a century ago.
If free verse isn’t your thing, and you really want to start with the classics, it’s hard to go wrong with Shakespeare. Few poetry books have stood the test of time like William Shakespeare’s Sonnets. First published in 1609, this collection of 154 poems explores timeless themes of love, beauty, mortality, and the passage of time. Written in the classic 14-line sonnet form, these works showcase Shakespeare’s mastery of language and emotional nuance.
Modern Poetry Books for New Readers
How do you start reading poetry? Follow the rhythm of the words. Try to feel the emotions that the poet is trying to convey. Modern poetry books about love and loss include Mars Jazz, published in 2016. All by BW Derge, there’s the follow-up collections of poetry: Paradox Locked (2019) and The Sun Will Eat You, Too (2024).
Yes, this article is shameless self-promotion of my own poetry books. Want to check some poems out? Here are the three title works:
- Mars Jazz, about Fermi’s paradox
- Paradox Locked, referencing “Paradise Lost”
- A Stellar Feast, about the ubiquitous and inescapable reality of death: “The sun will eat you, too.”
I am also using this post announce that the current publishing schedule is going to change for a little bit. The pattern since last summer solidified as: poem, playlist, prose, jam/podcast, opinion. Until the untitled series of micro stories about a character named Steve is finish, new poem posts will be on pause. Instead, the story about Steve will take that place in the rotation so I can focus more on posting new short stories. I will still be making poetry videos for existing poem posts that have already been published on the site. Stay tuned!
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Where to Find the Best Poetry Books Online
What makes a poetry book great? It connects with the individual reader. Poetry by nature is extremely subjective and what floats your boat may sink another reader’s vessel. There are some fantastic websites that serve as treasure troves for both new and classic poetry. Here are a few standout options:
- Poetry Foundation – Home to Poetry Magazine, this site offers a vast archive of poems, poet biographies, audio recordings, and insightful articles. It’s beautifully curated and perfect for both casual readers and serious scholars.
- Poets.org – Run by the Academy of American Poets, this site features the popular “Poem-a-Day” series, lesson plans, and a mobile app. It’s a great place to discover contemporary voices alongside timeless works.
- AllPoetry – One of the largest online poetry communities, where you can read, write, and share poems. It’s interactive, with contests, feedback forums, and a vibrant user base.
- Hello Poetry – A community-driven platform that emphasizes sharing and discovering poems. It’s great for connecting with other poets and finding fresh, personal work.
Here’s what one critic wrote about my latest collection:
Modern Cosmic Verse: The Sun Will Eat You, Too by B.W. Derge
“In his eighth poetry collection, The Sun Will Eat You, Too, B.W. Derge delivers a bold meditation on impermanence, wonder, and the strange beauty of existence. Spanning poems written between 2019 and 2023, this volume includes standout pieces like “A Stellar Feast” and “Two Ducks on a Pond (or, Quack),” showcasing Derge’s signature blend of wit, lyricism, and philosophical depth.
With a voice that’s both grounded and galactic, Derge invites readers to confront mortality not with dread, but with curiosity and clarity. This is modern American poetry that doesn’t flinch, it stares straight into the sun.”
