Poems for every occasion
As flattering as it is to be asked to give a reading at a friend or family member's wedding, it can be dauting finding the right poem to read. The pressure is even more acute if it's for a sombre occasion like a funeral.
The internet is awash with suggestions but not all of them feel appropriate. Finding the perfect poem that has the right tone and emotions is really tricky so we've collected together some of our favourites, for every occasion.
Poetry for weddings
Have You Got A Biro I Can Borrow? by Clive James
The well-known Australian critic and journalist was also a fantastic poet and this wonderfully romantic poem is one of his best.
I Carry Your Heart With Me by EE Cummings
This is a real wedding poem classic, and for good reason thanks to its beautiful imagery of suns and moons.
Coming home by Mary Oliver
One of my favourite, Oliver has so many beautiful poems to choose from but this intimate ode to love is a wedding winner.
Poetry for funerals
When Great Trees Fall by Maya Angelou
Angelou wrote this beautiful poem for fellow poet James Baldwin's funeral and it really captures the mix of emotions felt when a loved one dies.
Do Not Stand At My Grave And Weep by Mary Elizabeth Frye
This beautiful poem by the American poet Frye has a fveeling of hope, despite the sad subject matter.
Poetry for the birth of a child
I Thank You God For Most This Amazing by EE Cummings
While this wasn't written specifically about the birth of a child, it perfectly embodies the awe-inspiring feelings of new life beginning.
Morning Song by Sylvia Plath
Written after the birth of Plath's daughter Frieda, it starts with the most stunning of lines: 'Love set you going like a fat gold watch'.
Poetry for birthday cards
Four friends catch up over pasta by Amy Kay
This moving poem is a real ode to female friendship and the support girlfriends can give each other.
Poetry for a moment of calm in the day
Hope Is A Thing With Wings by Emily Dickinson
A poem to reassure in troubled times.
Wild Geese by Mary Oliver
A personal favourite, this stunning poem gives to reader permission to pause for a moment.
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