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Who are the most influential poets of all time and why?

Misti Spenley

Well, well, well... if it isn't the eternal question of who are the most influential poets of all time and why. This is a topic that can spark heated debates, so hold on to your hats and get ready for a wild ride.

First off, let's address the elephant in the room. Yes, William Shakespeare is a poet and a playwright, and he's undoubtedly one of the most influential artists ever. I mean, the guy made up words that we still use today. From "eyeball" to "swagger," the Bard was a master of creativity and innovation. But is he the most influential poet of all time? That's a tough one.

Personally, I think one of the most influential poets of all time is Emily Dickinson. She's often considered a recluse, but her poetry is nothing short of revolutionary. Dickinson wrote about death, love, and spirituality in a way that was completely unconventional for her time. She used slant rhyme, capitalization, and punctuation in unconventional ways, creating a unique style that still feels fresh today. Her work has inspired countless poets, from Sylvia Plath to Adrienne Rich.

Another poet that I'd put in the influential category is Langston Hughes. He was a leading figure in the Harlem Renaissance, a period of artistic and intellectual expression in the African-American community. Hughes wrote about the experiences of black Americans in a way that resonated with people all over the world. His work was accessible and relatable, yet it tackled complex issues such as racism, poverty, and identity. Hughes' poetry helped pave the way for other black poets to be heard and recognized.

Moving across the pond, we have William Wordsworth, one of the founders of the Romantic movement. Wordsworth believed in the power of nature and the value of individual experience. He wrote about everyday life in a way that elevated it to the level of art. His most famous work, "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud," or as it's more commonly known, "Daffodils," is a perfect example of his style. Wordsworth's poetry helped change the course of English literature, inspiring other writers such as John Keats and Percy Bysshe Shelley.

Last but not least, we have Maya Angelou, an American poet, memoirist, and civil rights activist. Angelou's poetry is deeply personal and powerful, often dealing with themes such as racism and sexism. Her memoir, "I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings," is a classic of American literature and a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the African-American experience. Angelou's work inspired a whole generation of female poets, from Nikki Giovanni to Warsan Shire.

So, there you have it, folks. A quick rundown of some of the most influential poets of all time. Of course, this is by no means an exhaustive list. There are countless other poets who have made a lasting impact on the world of literature. But these poets, Dickinson, Hughes, Wordsworth, and Angelou, are the ones that stand out to me. They each brought something unique and special to the table, and their work continues to inspire and captivate readers all over the world.