The Words I Wish I Said by Caitlin Kelly (Farsi)

Western poetry has a long and diverse history, shaped by the cultural, philosophical, and artistic movements that have emerged over the centuries. From the ancient epic poems of Homer, such as *The Iliad* and *The Odyssey*, to the more recent works of modern poets, Western poetry has consistently served as a medium for exploring themes of love, death, nature, society, and the human experience. Early Western poetry, including the works of the Greeks and Romans, was often structured around meter and rhyme, creating a sense of rhythm and unity. These traditions laid the foundation for later poetic forms, such as the sonnet, which became prominent during the Renaissance through poets like Shakespeare and Petrarch. As the centuries progressed, Western poetry continued to evolve, influenced by literary movements such as Romanticism, Modernism, and the Beat Generation. Poets like William Wordsworth and Samuel Taylor Coleridge captured the natural world’s beauty and the human soul’s depth, while figures like T.S. Eliot and W.B. Yeats explored the complexities of modern life, often blending personal reflection with broader social commentary. In the 20th and 21st centuries, poetry became even more experimental, with free verse and concrete poetry challenging traditional structures. Today, Western poetry remains a dynamic and varied art form, encompassing a range of voices and styles that reflect the changing nature of society, culture, and individual experience. Whether written in strict forms or free verse, Western poetry continues to engage readers by capturing the essence of human emotion and thought.