National Poetry Month
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - The Academy of American Poets established April as National Poetry Month in 1996 to broaden attention to poetry -- living poets and our poetic heritage -- and to increase the visibility and availability of poetry in popular culture.
When Robert Pinsky was selected as Poet Laureate in 1997, he initiated the Favorite Poem Project with a one year call for submissions. Americans, ages 5-97, from all states and diverse occupations shared 18,000 of their favorites.
Billy Collins, Poet Laureate in 2001-2003 established Poetry 180 for High Schools, with selections to be read with classes each school day. That program is still popular. W.S. Merwin, 82-years-old, is this year's choice and although he is reclusive, living with his wife in Maui, Hawaii, his work speaks to all of us.
Living on a barren plantation, he has cultivated 700 endangered plant species -- connecting nature and words. He also sees the oral tradition of poetry akin to music. Teachers might use rap as a beginning to interest teens in poetry.
Read some of Merwin's thought-provoking poetry and find your own connection.
Reported By Dr. Marciene Mattleman, KYW Newsradio
