poetry recommendations?

The problem with my knowledge of poetry is that I was only exposed to really archaic 17th century poetry (at least, I think it was 17th century). I disliked poetry so much! I was forced to actively avoid it in Modern British Literature after all my terrible experiences. I think the only poem I liked was The Love Song of J. Alfred Prufrock because it was the only one I read. Also, mermaids.

I was a terrible student.

I have Leaves of Grass on my list, but I'm looking for modern poetry to check out; 1920 to now. I'm looking for actual collections of poetry, not say, verse novels. Verse novels make me want to stab myself in the face.

Help a poetry failure out!

ya for obama and unnecessary lines in the sand

I was pretty happy to discover YA For Obama, because I am an Obama supporter and also, I love hearing smart, politically aware people who can tell a good story talk about politics. It's my story-telling roots come back 'round again! We need more smart people using strong language to say smart things. Those who love words using those words to communicate their ideas, and yes, their biases! I think this is healthy.

However, I ran across this post and from the overwrought image of police tape to the idea that teens can't parse political commentary to the insinuation that these YA authors should only do projects like this if they're going to condescend to teens while doing it, I disagree. I disagree vehemently. I think it misses the point completely.

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