Great Writers

The words of writer and civil rights activist James Baldwin are as relevant to America today as they were during his lifetime.

An avant-garde poet who experimented with language in daring new ways.

In Black History Month, we honor Toni Morrison, the first Black woman to be awarded the Nobel laureate in literature, gained worldwide acclaim for her unvarnished exploration of Black identity in America. Have you read her work? 

This Chilean poet, diplomat, senator began publishing under a pen name because his father discouraged him from writing poetry. Neruda went on to win the Nobel Prize for Literature.

"Before you know what kindness really is, you must lose things," writes poet Naomi Shihab Nye.

Clear, evocative, simply beautiful – words that describe this poet's work.

She is one of the most original and prolific poets of all time, the incomparable Emily Dickinson (1830—1886). 

Their poetry is intersectional, inclusive, and powerful. 

Get to know this poet, social activist, novelist, playwright, and leader of the Harlem Renaissance.

The youngest inaugural poet in U.S. history and an award-winning writer and social activist, whose poem, "The Hill We Climb," wowed America at President Joe Biden's inauguration in 2021.

Hi Poets! For the month of December, William Blake is YWP's Great Poet – recommended by YWP intern Anna O'Reilly.

Joy Harjo, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, draws on her ancestors' experience in her award-winning poetry. She was the 23rd United States Poet Laureate (2019-22).