March 21st marks World Poetry Day. This celebration can be traced back to 1999, where UNESCO first adopted 21 March as World Poetry Day during its 30th General Conference in Paris. They stated that it is a day that celebrates one of humanity’s most treasured forms of cultural and linguistic expression and identity. It is hoped that this celebration encourages and promotes reading, writing, and teaching of poetry throughout the world.

Did you know that the first known poem is from Babylon called the “Epic of Gilgamesh” and is 4,000 years old? Today, countless types of poems are available for us to enjoy. Nevertheless, it doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t write because what better way to celebrate than by writing your own poem? You don’t need a layout nor for it to rhyme to write one. You just write whatever feels right. During this celebration you can also turn your living room into a makeshift bookshop or café, and share your own writing (poem) or one of your favourites to your family and friends. Better yet, add some award winning poetry on your to-read list!