Poetry has found a new home on Instagram – but is it for better or for worse?

a woman sits on a beach looking at her phone, looking at poetry or writing poems on instagram

Today, I wanted. to talk about the fascinating topic of Instagram poetry. Love it or hate it, it has certainly made its mark on the world of contemporary poetry. Some people argue that Instagram poets have destroyed poetry with their clichés and lack of originality. However, I’m here to tell you that despite these criticisms, the rise of Instagram poetry is ultimately a good thing for poetry as a whole.

It’s clear that in today’s fast-paced world, people crave ways to express themselves in quick and concise ways. And with social media platforms like Instagram, poetry has found a new home.

Instagram poets have captured the hearts of many with their relatable and accessible poetry. No longer reserved for academics or literature buffs, poetry is becoming relevant again in a way that speaks to people’s everyday experiences. The rise of Instagram poetry is a testament to our need for artful forms of communication that are understandable and easy to consume.

One of the main criticisms of this style of poetry, and in particular, the style of Rupi Kaur, is the lack of originality and depth in the writing. Many critics argue that the poems lack complexity and fail to challenge the reader in any meaningful way. Some will also argue that the minimalist formatting used by many Instagram poets, including Kaur, can be seen as a gimmick that prioritizes style over substance.

Another criticism is the perceived commercialization of poetry, with some critics claiming that the rise of Instagram poets has turned poetry into a commodity rather than an art form. And lastly, there have been accusations of plagiarism against some Instagram poets, with critics claiming that many of the poems are derivative of earlier works or simply copied from other sources.

Here’s why critics who are against Instagram poetry are missing the point:

The truth is that poetry is constantly evolving and changing, just like any other art form. Instagram poetry is simply one of the latest expressions of that evolution, and it’s just as valid as any other form of poetry.

Yes, there may be some unoriginal poetry out there, but that’s nothing new. There have always been poets who follow popular trends and themes, just as there have always been those who push the boundaries and break new ground. And if poets only focused on making poetry that meets the standards of these critics, we would be missing out on so much of the beautiful and impactful poetry that has been created throughout history.

Art is not meant to please the critics. It’s meant to evoke emotion, to make us think, to challenge our perspectives and connect us with others. And that’s exactly what Instagram poetry is doing for many people. It’s giving them a new way to connect with poetry, a way that is accessible and relatable.

instagram poem by megan macdonald for mothers day
instagram poetry, poem written by megan macdonald, for mothers day

Instagram poetry, with its accessibility and shareability, has opened up the world of poetry to a whole new audience.

The platform has made it easy for young people who may have never picked up a poetry book before to discover and engage with poetry in a way that is fun and interactive. With its emphasis on short, simple, and relatable verses, Instagram poetry has also made poetry less intimidating and more approachable.

Which is why a new community of poets and readers has emerged. One where people can share their work, connect with like-minded individuals, and find inspiration from each other. This community has fostered a sense of belonging and support for aspiring poets, who can find encouragement and constructive feedback for their work. In addition, the platform has enabled poets to reach a wider audience and gain recognition for their work, without the need for traditional publishing channels.

And that’s why all things considered, I truly feel that Instagram poetry is a positive development for poetry as a whole. While some may criticize the lack of originality or the fast-paced nature of social media, Instagram poets have found a way to connect with their audience and create meaningful poetry. As we continue to navigate the challenges of the modern world, poetry may become even more important in helping us understand and relate to each other. So readers, I encourage you to engage with poetry in your own lives and see what it can offer you.

a pinterest pin showing three phones displaying poetry on instagran. the pin is meant to advertise this blog post.

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