Every year, on the third Wednesday of July, we celebrate Take Your Poet to Work Day, and in 2025, it falls on none other than July 16. If you ever thought poetry was reserved for dusty bookshelves or quiet coffee shops, think again! This quirky and delightful day is all about celebrating poets, their timeless words, and the impact poetry has on our lives—even in the workplace.
Why is Take Your Poet to Work Day Celebrated?
Take Your Poet to Work Day was created to shine a spotlight on poetry and the incredible poets who have gifted us with their words. Poetry transcends time and space, connecting human emotions in ways that few other art forms can. The day isn’t just about reading poetry; it’s about bringing that creativity and inspiration into our everyday work lives, reminding us of the beauty and power of language.
A Brief History of the Day
The idea for Take Your Poet to Work Day originated with the belief that poetry belongs everywhere—not just in literature classes or libraries. It’s a movement to make poetry more accessible and relevant to people who might not encounter it daily. While the exact origins of the day remain playful and mysterious, it’s been embraced by poetry lovers, educators, and workplaces worldwide, sparking creativity and connection wherever it goes.
How Can You Celebrate?
Celebrating Take Your Poet to Work Day can be as fun and imaginative as you want it to be! Here are some ideas to get you started:
- Bring a Poet to Work: If you can’t invite a real poet, print out pictures or cutouts of your favorite poets and display them at your desk.
- Host a Poetry Reading: Gather your colleagues for a poetry recital during lunch. Share your favorite verses or even write your own!
- Create a Poetry Wall: Dedicate a space in your office for everyone to pin up their favorite poems or lines.
- Inspire with Words: Write a short, motivational poem and share it with your team. Encourage others to do the same!
Fun Facts About Poets and Poetry
- The word “poet” comes from the Greek word “poiein,” which means “to make.”
- April is National Poetry Month in the United States, but Take Your Poet to Work Day ensures poetry gets love in July too!
- Some of the world’s greatest leaders were also poets—think Winston Churchill and John F. Kennedy.
- Haikus, a traditional Japanese poetry form, have just 17 syllables!
Why It Matters
In a fast-paced world dominated by deadlines and meetings, it’s easy to forget the importance of creativity and expression. Poetry encourages us to pause, reflect, and see the world from a new perspective. By celebrating this day, we’re not only honoring poets but also reminding ourselves to embrace creativity in all aspects of life—even at work.
Call to Action
This July 16, take a poet to work—literally or figuratively—and let poetry inspire your day! Whether you’re reading a sonnet during your coffee break, sharing a limerick with your team, or penning your own office-inspired masterpiece, join the movement to make poetry a part of your workplace culture. Snap a photo of your celebration and share it on social media with the hashtag #TakeYourPoetToWorkDay to inspire others to join in!
