What 16 Months of Reading 3,000+ Poems Taught Me

When you read hundreds of poems every month, you stop looking for perfection, and start listening for truth.

Over the past 16 months, I have had the privilege of serving as a poetry curator and reader for the Yemipoet Monthly Poetry Contest. Each month, I read between 150 and 300 poems, spanning themes such as Zero Hunger, Victory, Comfort Zone, World of Love, Poetic Rant for Social Change, Poetry for SDGs Letter to Self, and many others.

This experience has changed me.

First, I have learned that poetry is not just art, it is testimony. Across different voices and backgrounds, I encountered pain, hope, anger, faith, resistance, love, and resilience. Writers consistently reminded me that poetry is often a place where truth feels safest.

Second, I have evolved as a reader. I now read beyond beautiful lines and clever metaphors. I listen for intent, honesty, clarity, and growth. I have learned to value poems that may be imperfect in form but powerful in purpose, as much as those that are technically polished.

Third, I have seen patterns that matter. The strongest poems often:

- Stay true to the theme without forcing it
- Show rather than tell
- Use simple language with deep meaning
- Speak from lived experience or sincere reflection

To writers and poetry contest participants, my advice is this:

- Write honestly, not performatively
- Read widely and revise intentionally
- Respect the theme, but don’t imprison your voice
- Growth matters more than winning

Every poem submitted is a step forward. Every attempt sharpens your voice.

To all the poets who have trusted us with their words, thank you. You have not only grown as writers; you have also shaped me as a reader.

Poetry continues to teach me that listening is an art, too.

Opeyemi Enitan Moses .......