A little known fact: it’s National Poetry month. What does that mean? From angst ridden teenagers to Shakespeare wannabes, poets everywhere get a chance to step out in the sunlight and celebrate their art.

This Thursday, in an effort to expand the reaches of poetry, the Academy of American Poets declared it “Poem in Your Pocket Day”; it’s a day to celebrate and share your favorite poem by carrying it around in your pocket all day, whether it be on your phone or on a sheet of paper. 

Created in 2002 as an attempt by the New York City’s mayor’s office to promote poetry, the idea has expanded until, finally, in 2008, the Academy of American Poets adopted Poem in Your Pocket as a nationwide event. Cities all over the United States are celebrating by holding poetry readings and contests. Some companies even offer discounts if a costumer has a poem in their pocket.

“My favorite poem is ‘Troll Sat Alone on His Seat of Stone,'” commented Josh Norris, senior, shortly before reciting it to me, “but I’m not going to carry it in my pocket.”

“I’ll carry a poem,” said Jessica Gallagher, “but I don’t know which one yet.” 

Madelyn Wong, an editor of The Eclectic literary and arts magazine, is going to carry “Backdrop Addresses Cowboy” by Margaret Atwood.  You can read it here. 

You can also share the poem you selected on twitter at #pocketpoem.