2023’s poetry landscape was emboldened; with many poets finding their feet planted and their path focused like never before. Events resurfaced: (see: Mass Poetry Festival); milestones were reached (see: Poetry’s Biggest Night); and poets used their voices to reconcile with both self and others (see: Wayne’s Attempt). 2023 saw many poets finally catching a glimpse of much needed light.
However…
2023 also found many poets suddenly embroiled. And while the ever-so-subjective “perfect words” came easily for some; other poets felt at a loss. Finding their hearts heavy, their pens dry and their fingers numb. Double-checking each word, statement and… thought.
Having served the poetry community for nine years – we’ve come to know this diverse group very well. We are constantly reminded of the beauty of nuance, as we consume the wide-ranging spectrum of thoughts and opinions. As we cater to both the hurting and the hopeful, our goal is to remain consistent. As we often mention – we hope that you find this place warm, intellectually stimulating and safe. A place where you can dive into poetry for enjoyment and escapism… or for validation and comfort.
We will continue to remain that place for you. For whenever you choose to indulge. You are such an important part of our community and we are grateful to have you.
So, now…
Let’s take a moment to remember 2023, with these special highlights. Allow yourself to enjoy this moment because: Cheers! We made it!
To all the poets and poetry-lovers… we will see you in 2024, and we wish you a very happy New Year!
-The Poet’s List
2023 POETRY WRAP
articles: MASTERS OF THE PEN
Congratulations to Gioconda Belli for winning the Reina Sofia Poetry Prize; J. Ivy for taking home the very first Grammy for “Best Spoken Word Poetry Album; and Andru Defeye for his powerful feature in the Sacramento Bee.
GRAMMY GAME CHANGERS
The Poet’s List was granted an incredible opportunity to interview poets nominated for the GRAMMYs new “Best Spoken Word Poetry Album” category!
Click here to read our interviews with nominees from the Feb 2023 and the upcoming Feb 2024 ceremonies! (More features coming soon!)
TWO SNAPS + A POD
On this podcast, host + founder, Lexzie, explores some of these poems in depth, while lending thoughtful insight and personal stories. Headphones in. It’s time for a lyrical journey!
SAYING GOODBYE
The poetry community mourned the loss of several poets this year. We are forever in awe of their work and legacy. We would also like to acknowledge the December 2022 passing of beloved poet, Tonya Ingram.
THE POET’S LIST: VIRTUAL RETREAT
We launched an app! Pinch us, it’s real!
Most writers dream of tucking away in a cabin for a weekend retreat. We are bringing that experience to the palm of your hand! The community, the creativity and the encouragement is one click away on The Poet’s List’s app.
Sign up for free! Or, join our membership to experience the full list of features, below.
- Socialize in Chat Forums
- Workshops Led by The Poet’s List + Established Poets
- Writing Prompts
- Writing Buddies
- Podcast
- Personal Journal
- Public Prompt Leaderboard
- TPL TV
The “Performance Tips” workshop features lessons from: KK Esther, Kelsey Bigelow, Christian “Soul Stuf” Perfas and Alexzenia Davis!
Interviews
The Poet’s List conducted interviews with wonderfully fascinating poets:
Renowned poet, Haki Madhubuti is one of 11 iconic poets to be awarded the Ruth Lilly Poetry Prize in October 2022. This prize was presented as part of Poetry magazine’s annual Pegasus Awards. The Poet’s List was granted this prestigious interview which ran in January 2023.
Eniola “omó pastor” Adeniyi is quite the force. The Nigerian-American storyteller is a passionate photographer and beautiful poet who chatted with us about her book, Gaze.
Nana Fredua-Agyeman Jnr. is one of Ghana’s leading, and prized, poetic voices. We were thrilled to learn about his album, Ponder. Note: He has recently released his sophomore album, Wonder.
This is our second interview with poet, Curtis Nathan Curry, and musician, Dave Gajda. We were ecstatic to receive an update on their lives while diving deep into their album, Good Night Dead Man.
Abu Ibrahim has been taking the Nigerian poetry scene by storm. He is an incredible poet, who graciously chatted with us about his album, Music Has Failed Us; making for a powerful conversation.
Grab your poetry gear
SPOKEN WORD VIDEOS
Pick a Poem..
And watch on our site or share to social! Here are some of our favorites from 2023.
Let’s play… wordpit
Have you heard about WordPit? This deck is every poet’s dream. Spike your creativity, get competitive, or use it for therapy and self-care. This fresh, fun and emotional approach to prompt-writing is something you’ve got to experience for yourself.
Each box is comprised of two decks of cards containing thirty (30) poem types and sixty (60) word prompts. When paired together, the cards create a unique poetry prompt; with the deck offering up to 1800 possible combinations. WordPit can be enjoyed as a solo game or in a multi-player setting. Purchase HERE.
AND THAT’S A WRAP!
THANK YOU FOR ROCKIN’ WITH THE POET’S LIST…
SEE YOU IN 2024!
