"It was at that age that poetry came in search of me." 
-Pablo Neruda

How old were you when poetry came to you? When did you decide to read it, write it, or both? Are you a late bloomer to painting with words? Have you been reading poetry for a long time, appreciating each nuanced syllable?

How do you read a poem? Is it a song in your head? Is it ponderous?

How do you write poetry? Why? Do you write to be heard, to release emotion, or for the pure pleasure of putting pen to paper, fingers to keyboard?

Share your poetic experiences with other poetry writers and readers: Just add your story to the comments section below.

It's National Poetry Month, a time to celebrate the burgeoning poets and readers. Visit your local New Your Public Library branch and check out their poetry collections. Find a quiet nook to compose and let the language flow. Young and old, let the language flow.