Women in Verse: Poetry Collections by Groundbreaking Female Poets

What do Emily Dickinson, Adrienne Rich, and Nayyirah Mated have in common? Each redefined the poetic landscape of their respective eras and generations thereafter. However, while continually influencing the literary world, these female poets were also busy inspiring social change, tearing down mysogynistic norms, and empowering readers to do the same. This blog celebrates some of the most groundbreaking female poets and their extraordinary collections. 

1. The Collected Poems of Emily Dickinson by Emily Dickinson

One of the most recognizable names in American poetry, Emily Dickinson redefined the art form posthumously. Only a handful of her poems were published during her lifetime, as she lived most of it as a recluse, but she left behind nearly 1,800 poems found only after her death. 

2. The Dream of a Common Language by Adrienne Rich

Adrienne Rich was a formidable force in feminist and political theory. Her collection The Dream of a Common Language, published in 1978, is both deeply personal and inherently political, exploring themes of identity, sexuality, and the bonds between women. It’s serves as a call to action for women’s liberation, and a voice for women who had long been marginalized. 

3. Citizen: An American Lyric by Claudia Rankine

This pioneering collection addresses the everyday instances of racism, micro aggressions, as well as systemic injustices like police brutality and racial violence. Rankine begs the reader to face some uncomfortable truths: to consider how deeply ingrained racism is in our society, and how each of us plays a role in its perpetuation. 

4. The Complete Poems by Anne Sexton

Sexton's poetry is globally renowned for its candid exploration of mental illness, death, and womanhood. In a famously brutal and confessional tone, Sexton addressed various taboo topics like trauma, depression, and suicide. 

Throughout history, poetry has been a means for women to convey their experiences, conflicts, and opinions. These works will always present a new angle on ageless conversation, whether you're a student learning about these voices for the first time or a lifelong enthusiast. You can find these poets and more at the Friends of the Boca Raton Public Library bookstore or the online at the Boca Raton Public Library!