In the past, many people recognized the importance of poetry, and that’s why it was a part of classical education. Unfortunately, cuts to the American public education system have resulted in “unnecessary” subjects such as poetry being removed from the curriculum.

This is something to which we take exception. We believe that poetry is one of the most important forms of expression and can allow students to synthesize thoughts and emotions, look at the world in a new way, and find their path to truth.

While many schools are moving away from poetry in the classroom, some individuals have come up with a clever way to introduce adults to poetry. This is through a holiday known as Poetry at Work Day, observed annually on the second Tuesday in January. It’s a day we encourage everyone to enjoy when it comes around each year.

The History of Poetry at Work Day

We’re not entirely sure who invented Poetry at Work Day, but we have to say that it was a brilliant idea. We just wish we had thought of it first. It’s a day that encourages workers’ creativity and helps to ease their boredom with some impromptu poetry reading and recitations.

It’s also a way for people to share their favorite poets with their colleagues. For us, William Butler Yeats holds a special place in our hearts, but others might enjoy Dylan Thomas more. And that’s the beauty of this holiday. Everyone can have their favorites and share them with their coworkers. What could be better than that?

Some Important Facts About Poetry

Okay, it’s time to talk about some of the things we’ve learned about poetry while working on Poetry at Work Day. So we urge everyone to pull up a chair, grab a pencil and notebook, and take some notes about poetry. We’ve gathered together some of our favorite facts below.

• Poetry is one of the oldest forms of communication in the world.
• The oldest surviving epic poem is the Epic of Gilgamesh, dating back to 3000 B.C. in Sumer.
• August 21st is observed annually as Poet’s Day.
• The fear of poetry is known as metrophobia.

Observing Poetry at Work Day

All anyone has to do to enjoy Poetry at Work Day is to engage with poetry while they work. This can mean reading poetry, talking about poetry, or sharing your favorite poets with your colleagues.

This is also a day for people to write their own original poetry, perhaps something that tells the world about their inner struggles. And anyone celebrating this day can share their creativity online using their words and the hashtag #PoetryAtWorkDay.