The New York City Mayor's Office established Poem in Your Pocket Day in 2002. It was established to commemorate National Poetry Month by encouraging individuals to express themselves through poetry and appreciate all of the wonderful poetry that the world has to offer. Will you carry a poem in your pocket today to share with others? Check out some other ways that you can enjoy the day.
Write some Towers of Light-themed Haikus
A Haiku is a short form of poetry that originated in Japan. It has three lines that don't typically rhyme. What is special about this type of poem is that you must follow the rules of its format. A Haiku only has 17 total syllables. There are 5 syllables in line 1, 7 syllables in line 2, and 5 syllables in line 3. Many Haikus have a theme based on nature, but you can pick whatever theme that you wish. The third line of the poem will give a comment or final observation about the theme. Here are a couple of examples.
The Tower was built.
The Darkness did not like it.
They will shine their light.
Ethan hurt his head.
He got conked on the noggin.
Sparkle Frog will help.
Here are some other ways to have fun on Poem in Your Pocket Day
go to a poetry reading
read different types of poems
invite friends over for tea or coffee and ask them to bring a favorite poem to read
try writing a poem
try writing a poem together with your family
get a new book of poetry or check some out at the library
send a poem to a friend or loved one
write funny poems on small pieces of paper and pass them out to people that you see
if writing isn't up your alley then create different kinds of art based on a poem: Illustrate a poem, or color while listening to poems being read. Create a drawing, painting, sculpture, or song based on how the poem made you feel or based on the poem's theme.