Why Is Poetry a Great Way to Learn English?

When you think of studying English, what comes to mind?

Maybe textbooks, grammar exercises, or conversation practice..

But what if I told you that poetry could help you improve your English in a fun and unique way too?

Poetry might seem challenging at first, but it's actually a fantastic tool for learning. Here’s why:

Memorable Expressions & Imagery

Poetry pushes us to engage with language differently. Poems aren't just about direct statements; they are filled with imagery and subtle meaning, which makes them a great tool for learning how words can carry deeper emotions in English.

For example, instead of saying, “I love you,” an ancient Egyptian poet would say:

“My heart flutters hastily when I see you.”

Studying poetry expands your ability to express your feelings and thoughts more vividly and helps you notice the power of carefully chosen words.

The Sound & Flow of Language

Poetry isn’t just about what words mean, it’s also about how they sound. Reading poetry out loud helps you become more aware of rhythm, stress, and natural flow in English.

For example, here's how an ancient Egyptian would describe being in love through poetry:

So seize the day! hold holiday!

Be unwearied, unceasing, alive

you and your own true love
Let not the heart be troubled during your

sojourn on Earth,

but seize the day as it passes!

By practicing poetry, you will sharpen your pronunciation, intonation, and confidence when speaking.

Understanding Culture & Emotions

Poetry is a window into the emotions and values of a society. Through poetry, we can understand how people from the past loved, longed, and expressed devotion just as we do today.

For example, ancient Egyptian love poems reveal a world where romance was playful, passionate, and deeply emotional.

Lovers compared each other to lotus flowers, sweet honey, and dazzling stars. They spoke of aching separation, secret glances, and overwhelming joy—themes that still resonate with us thousands of years later.

By exploring these poems, we don’t just learn about language, we gain insight into the timeless nature of human emotions and see how love has always been at the heart of the human experience.

If this sounds interesting to you, I’ve got a special lesson for February where we’ll explore some of the oldest love poems in history.

It’s a fun way to learn English while discovering the romantic side of Ancient Egypt!