Write, Poets, Write
A tribute to the voices that came before—and a call to those still finding theirs.
Honoring the poets who inspired us—and becoming the voices others need.
“To the Poets” is a heartfelt tribute to the literary voices who have shaped generations of writers, from Langston Hughes to Maya Angelou and beyond. With gratitude and urgency, Rolanda Pyle celebrates the power of poetry and calls on today’s writers to rise, share their stories, and keep the written word alive. This piece is both a thank-you and a charge: write boldly, write truthfully, and don’t let your words go unspoken.
My heart is moved with a good theme;
I address my verses to the King;
My tongue is the pen of a ready writer. Psalm 45:1
There is something sacred about the moment a writer realizes they are not alone. Every poem, every line, every voice that came before becomes a quiet companion—nudging, encouraging, reminding us to keep going. In “To the Poets,” Rolanda Pyle honors the great literary voices who lit the path before her, while extending an invitation to every writer still holding back: your words matter, and the world is waiting.
To the Poets
There’s a long list of those who encouraged me to write,
You, poets who inspired me, I have kept you in my sight.
Yes, I love your words and I will keep my eyes on you.
It began with Langston Hughes, Edgar Guest and Maya Angelou!
It is you who encouraged me to push on with all my might
And you who have inspired me to continue to write!
So here’s to some of the poets that have led the way:
… William Shakespeare, Emily Dickinson, Gwendolyn Brooks, Elizabeth Barrett-Browning, Nikki Giovanni, Antowne Fisher, Felecia Scott...
And for those of you who still have lots to say:
Write on, sisters and brothers!
Write on to encourage others!
Write for what’s in you, others have to hear
Write, for you know you have a lot to share!
Write for in you lies a treasure chest.
Write the rest!
Write the best!
Write! Write! Write!
Don’t let those words die!
Write, Poets, Write!
Rolanda Pyle (c) All Rights Reserved
Poetry has always been more than words on a page—it is legacy, connection, and courage woven together. As we honor the poets who dared to speak, we are reminded that their work is not finished… it lives on through us. So pick up the pen, lean into your voice, and write what only you can write. Because somewhere, someone is waiting to be changed by your words.
Write on.
