When poetry first started, the verses were actually written so that people could sing them or read them out loud. Because poetry was introduced closely after writing was developed, the ancient poems were very structured and early poets followed a traditional format. It wasn’t until the twentieth century when authors of poems wrote works that were considered free verse.
Today, poetry takes so many forms and styles. Authors now use poems to express certain emotions and stories that will relate to themselves, with other people, and with many sensitive issues of today’s generation.
Over the course of centuries, different parts of the world have developed their own style in poetry. And classical poetry had a mind of its own. With the help of some prominent authors in poetry during their time such as Cornaro, Kazantzakis, and Cavafy who were each notable for their unique use of language in their poems, other aspiring poets and authors became inspired to write as well.
Although poetry has evolved over time, modernization only empowered the use of poems not only as a form of entertainment but also as a form of self-expression. Modern-day poets such as Maya Angelou and Billy Collins have created poems that transcend through generations and inspire people through their lines and poetic wisdom.