A Poem in Your Pocket

T.S. Eliot called April "the cruellest month," but on a day like today, with cherry blossoms drifting in the sunny-warm air, it's pretty hard to agree!

Around here April is "National Poetry Month," and has been since its inauguration by the Academy of American Poets in 1996: 

"National Poetry Month is now held every April, when publishers, booksellers, literary organizations, libraries, schools and poets around the country band together to celebrate poetry and its vital place in American culture. Thousands of businesses and non-profit organizations participate through readings, festivals, book displays, workshops, and other events." (http://www.poets.org/page.php/prmID/41)

One of the neatest things we've seen in connection with National Poetry Month is the "Poem in Your Pocket Day," that has been celebrated in NYC since 2002 with open readings in public places like coffee houses, parks, and even workplaces.

"The idea is simple: select a poem you love during National Poetry Month then carry it with you to share with co-workers, family, and friends on April 29, 2010."

We love the idea of keeping poetry that close to you. You never know when you might need it!

For more information on National Poetry Month and on Poem in Your Pocket Day, visit The Academy of American Poets website.

And while you're there, don't forget to pick up a poem for your pocket!