Contemporary poetry offers a diverse range of voices that reflect the complexities of the modern world. Whether you’re a seasoned poetry enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, exploring the works of today’s poets can be a deeply enriching experience. This blog highlights must-read poetry collections by contemporary poets, showcasing the best modern poetry and influential voices shaping the literary landscape of the 21st century.

1. The Tradition by Jericho Brown

Jericho Brown's Pulitzer Prize-winning collection, The Tradition, is a stunning exploration of identity, race, and the human experience. Brown’s innovative use of language and form brings his poetry to life, blending personal narratives with universal themes. His work is deeply introspective, tackling difficult subjects such as love, violence, and survival in modern society.

Why You Should Read It:

• A powerful and lyrical exploration of race and identity
• Winner of the Pulitzer Prize for Poetry in 2020
• Jericho Brown is one of the most important voices in contemporary poetry

2. Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankine

Claudia Rankine’s Citizen is a groundbreaking collection that blurs the line between poetry, essay, and visual art. Through a series of personal anecdotes and reflections, Rankine addresses the ongoing issue of racial injustice in America. Her work is both urgent and poignant, offering a powerful commentary on race, identity, and citizenship in the modern world.

Why You Should Read It:

• A powerful reflection on race and identity in contemporary society
• Blends poetry with personal narrative and visual art
• One of the most critically acclaimed contemporary poetry collections

3. Don’t Call Us Dead by Danez Smith

Danez Smith's Don’t Call Us Dead is a poignant and powerful collection that delves into the experiences of Black Americans, particularly Black men, in a society marred by systemic racism and violence. Smith’s raw and emotive language gives voice to the struggles of marginalized communities while offering hope for a better future.

Why You Should Read It:

• A searing exploration of race, identity, and violence in America
• Nominated for the National Book Award for Poetry
• Danez Smith is a rising star in contemporary poetry

4. Whereas by Layli Long Soldier

Whereas by Layli Long Soldier is a remarkable collection that addresses the historical and ongoing injustices faced by Native Americans. Long Soldier’s work is deeply reflective, exploring the complexities of language, identity, and power. Her poetry challenges readers to confront the uncomfortable truths of history while imagining a more just and equitable future.

Why You Should Read It:

• A powerful reflection on Native American history and identity
• Winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award for Poetry
• Layli Long Soldier is an essential voice in contemporary poetry

5. Deaf Republic by Ilya Kaminsky

Ilya Kaminsky’s Deaf Republic is a lyrical and haunting collection that tells the story of a fictional town’s resistance to tyranny. Through a series of interconnected poems, Kaminsky explores themes of war, resistance, and silence. His work is both deeply personal and universally resonant, offering a powerful meditation on the human capacity for resilience and defiance.

Why You Should Read It:

• A masterful blend of narrative and lyric poetry
• Explores themes of resistance, silence, and defiance
• Ilya Kaminsky is one of the most distinctive voices in contemporary poetry

6. Magdalene by Marie Howe

Marie Howe’s Magdalene is a deeply introspective collection that reimagines the story of Mary Magdalene in a modern context. Through a series of evocative and lyrical poems, Howe explores themes of love, loss, and spirituality. Her work is both deeply personal and universally relatable, offering readers a profound meditation on the human condition.

Why You Should Read It:

• A modern reimagining of the story of Mary Magdalene
• Explores themes of love, loss, and spirituality
• Marie Howe is a widely respected and influential contemporary poet

7. Night Sky with Exit Wounds by Ocean Vuong

Ocean Vuong's Night Sky with Exit Wounds is a deeply moving and beautifully crafted collection that explores the intersections of identity, family, and history. Vuong’s poetry is both intimate and expansive, blending personal narratives with broader reflections on war, displacement, and love. His work is a testament to the power of language to heal and transform.

Why You Should Read It:

• A deeply personal exploration of identity, family, and history
• Winner of the T.S. Eliot Prize for Poetry
• Ocean Vuong is one of the most celebrated contemporary poets

8. The Carrying by Ada Limón

Ada Limón’s The Carrying is a lyrical and contemplative collection that explores themes of love, loss, and the natural world. Limón’s poetry is deeply rooted in personal experience, offering readers a window into the complexities of human relationships and the beauty of the everyday. Her work is both accessible and profound, making her one of the most beloved poets of our time.

Why You Should Read It:

• A lyrical exploration of love, loss, and the natural world
• Winner of the National Book Critics Circle Award for Poetry
• Ada Limón’s poetry is both accessible and deeply moving

Must-Read Poetry by Contemporary Poets

Contemporary poetry offers a rich and diverse array of voices that reflect the complexities of modern life. Whether you're drawn to the lyrical beauty of Ada Limón, the bold innovation of Hanif Abdurraqib, or the powerful social commentary of Claudia Rankine, there is something in contemporary poetry for everyone. These must-read collections showcase the best poetry by modern poets, offering readers a window into the world of 21st-century literature.

By exploring these essential contemporary poetry collections, you'll not only gain insight into the minds of today's most influential poets but also deepen your understanding of the issues and themes that shape our world today.

Explore your favorite book at your own online bookstore.

Happy Reading!