When we think of poetry in schools, the first things that often come to mind are the classics: Shakespeare, Keats, Wordsworth – stalwarts of the literary canon whose work has been admired for centuries. But while these poets undeniably offer insight into the language and culture of their times, they don’t always represent the full spectrum of voices, experiences, or perspectives of the modern world.
In a rapidly changing world, it’s essential that we broaden our reading lists to include modern poetry, which opens doors to diverse experiences and promotes inclusivity in ways that classic works might not. More importantly, poetry and stories-in-verse can spark a love of reading that lasts a lifetime.
The case for modern poetry
I, like a lot of authors spend a significant amount of time visiting schools up and down the country, promoting a love of reading and writing. As someone who has primarily written verse novels I can add poetry to that list too. When talking to students I often hear how poetry isn’t ‘for them’, it doesn’t resonate with them, or they simply ‘don’t get it.’ This is precisely the point at which I make my case for modern poetry and verse novels. It's dynamic, diverse and accessible! I’ll say enthusiastically, whilst shoving a verse novel in their face, give it a go! I joke, but it’s true – modern poetry has all those qualities and more, making it an excellent tool for engaging students from different backgrounds and with varying reading abilities.
While the classics are steeped in historical and cultural significance, they can sometimes feel remote or difficult for young readers to connect with. In contrast, modern poets – such as Warsan Shire, Lemn Sissay, Joseph Coelho, Steve Camden, Nikita Gill, Raymond Antrobus, Dean Atta, Kae Tempest and Sarah Crossan, to name a few – tackle issues that resonate with today’s world, such as identity, race, gender, mental health, environmental activism and social justice. Their work addresses the complexities of the human experience in a way that feels immediate and relevant, allowing young readers to see themselves reflected in the words they read – something classic poetry, however beautiful, might struggle to offer. Moreover, these topics, though sometimes difficult to confront, offer rich opportunities for discussion, reflection and deeper understanding.
“[Modern poets address] the complexities of the human experience in a way that feels immediate and relevant, allowing young readers to see themselves reflected in the words they read.”
Another key benefit of including more contemporary verse in the classroom is that it fosters inclusivity. The diversity of voices in contemporary poetry ensures that a broad range of cultural, social, and personal experiences are represented. These voices help students from different backgrounds see that their culture, experience and struggles are worth exploring in literature. At the same time, they give students from other walks of life the opportunity to engage with experiences outside their own, fostering empathy and understanding. This in turn creates a richer, more textured understanding of the world for students.
Something for everyone
Modern poetry also embraces a wide variety of forms and styles, which opens new avenues for students to connect with language and storytelling. From short, punchy lines of slam poetry to free-flowing verse in verse novels, to a collection of modern sonnets, contemporary poets offer many ways to approach the written word, providing a more varied and exciting reading experience for students.
I think it’s also worth saying that historically, certain voices have been excluded from the literary canon. However, by broadening our understanding of what constitutes ‘great poetry’, we not only make space for the voices that have been overlooked, but we also encourage young readers to appreciate the richness and variety of human expression.
I’m often told that verse novels are great for reluctant readers and when showing (off) my books in schools I encourage children not to be put off by the thickness of the book. It’s a quick read I’ll say, there’s lots of white space on the page! This is true and one of the greatest gifts poetry offers: its ability to inspire a love of reading. The fact that it’s often shorter makes it an ideal starting point for reluctant readers or those who might feel intimidated by longer novels. The beauty of poetry lies in its brevity, where every word counts, and every line carries weight. It teaches readers to appreciate language and rhythm and for struggling readers the use of rhyme and repetition can also make poetry more memorable, helping to build confidence and fluency in reading.
“By broadening our understanding of what constitutes ‘great poetry’, we not only make space for the voices that have been overlooked, but we also encourage young readers to appreciate the richness and variety of human expression.”
Of course, I have to talk about the power of stories in verse. Forging poetry with narrative is particularly effective in encouraging reading for pleasure. I’ve heard it said by many a school librarian, and as a verse novelist, this makes me very happy. Verse novels allow for a unique balance of storytelling and emotional depth. The story format helps to engage students who might otherwise find poetry too abstract or challenging and in turn engage students who find a more ‘traditional’ novel intimidating. By presenting characters, settings and plotlines, verse novels offer students a familiar structure while encouraging them to explore poetic devices like metaphor, imagery and symbolism.
Enrich pupils’ experience of poetry
Incorporating modern poetry into the classroom isn’t just about adding variety to the reading list or a diversity box tick exercise. It’s about ensuring that all students feel represented and that their voices and experiences are valued. Whether through the works of poets from diverse backgrounds, through the raw emotion of spoken word or the emotive power of verse novels, modern poetry has the power to inspire, challenge and connect readers. Most importantly, by embracing modern poetry, we not only enrich the curriculum but also contribute to the creation of a more inclusive, empathetic and literate society.
Manjeet Mann is the author of ‘Magic, Magic, Everywhere’, a story-in-verse from Big Cat’s collection of contemporary poetry. Find out more here.