The Poetry Stash: 20January2025

Inaugural poems

Today’s selection explores inaugural poems. An inaugural poem is by definition an occasional poem which is written to describe or comment on a particular event, and in this case, the inauguration of the U.S president. The poem’s intent is not necessarily to praise the president or the country, but rather, it is an opportunity to explore what the U.S and/or the event signifies to you personally and/or universally.

Here is a link to a website that can assist you in writing your own inaugural poem: Your Inaugural Poem.

To listen to Elizabeth Alexander recite her poem “Praise Song for the Day” at the inauguration of President Barack Obama on January 20, 2009, click here.

Prompts:

1. Photo by Kaboompics.com via pexels.com. Use the image as a writing prompt.

2. Photo by Pixabay via pexels.com. Use the image as a writing prompt.

3. Photo by Robin Erino via pexels.com. Use the image as a writing prompt.

4. Photo by Pixabay via pexels.com. Use the image as a writing prompt.

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