Poetry often gets a bad rap – dense, outdated, and impossible to understand without a degree in literature, right? But in 2025, there’s a growing wave of poets and collections that break the mould, proving that poetry can be punchy, personal, and powerful. Regardless of whether it’s relevant for your own studies, reading poetry is a great way to feed your brain and even switch off in between seminars, lectures and essays.
- A Portable Paradise by Roger Robinson
This award-winning collection is a must-read for students looking for poetry rooted in lived experience. Robinson’s writing is deeply emotional and unapologetically honest, touching on everything from fatherhood and Grenfell to love and loss. The language is clear but rich, and the themes – community, grief, identity – are deeply relatable.
Perfect for: fans of social commentary, spoken word, or those who want to understand the UK through poetry.
- The World’s Wife by Carol Ann Duffy
If you haven’t already come across this in school, you definitely should. Former Poet Laureate Carol Ann Duffy flips traditional narratives on their heads by giving voices to the women behind famous men – like Mrs. Midas, Queen Herod, and Mrs. Faust. It’s witty, biting, feminist, and surprisingly fun.
Perfect for: those studying literature or gender politics, or anyone who loves a clever re-telling.
- The Black Flamingo by Dean Atta
Technically a novel-in-verse, this book blends poetry and storytelling in a way that’s incredibly engaging. It follows Michael, a mixed-race gay teen navigating identity and belonging through drag and spoken word. It’s heartfelt, easy to read, and full of lines that stay with you.
Perfect for: fans of contemporary YA, LGBTQ+ stories, or students who don’t think they “get” poetry yet.
- Bless the Daughter Raised by a Voice in Her Head by Warsan Shire
Shire, known to many through her collaboration with Beyoncé on Lemonade, delivers hauntingly beautiful work in this collection. Her poems explore migration, womanhood, trauma, and resilience with lyrical precision. It’s raw, intimate, and deeply moving.
Perfect for: students interested in diaspora experiences, or those who appreciate emotional depth and stunning imagery.
- Poems to Live Your Life By, curated by Chris Riddell
This illustrated collection is a gem for those dipping their toes into poetry. Featuring both classic and contemporary poets – think Shakespeare, Maya Angelou, and Kae Tempest. It’s a great way to explore a wide range of voices and styles in a single book.
Perfect for: beginners, visual learners, or anyone who wants a beautiful poetry book on their shelf.
In 2025, poetry is more alive and more accessible than ever. You don’t need to unravel complex metaphors or memorise obscure references to enjoy it. These collections prove that poetry can speak directly to your heart, your struggles, and your generation. So whether you’re on the bus, in the library, or curled up in bed – grab one of these books and let poetry do its thing.
