A Celebration of Words and Voices
World Poetry Day, established by UNESCO in the early years of the new millennium, has become a global event celebrated every 21 March. The day serves as a reminder of the importance of poetry in expressing cultural identity, linguistic diversity, and human experiences. It encourages people around the world to appreciate and engage with poetry, while also highlighting the significance of endangered languages and the poets who give them voice.
This year, we turn our attention closer to home, where a rich tapestry of languages and cultures coexist. We speak with Aurora Vélez, a Euronews senior reporter and poet-in-residence, who offers insights into her journey with poetry and its evolving role in modern society.
A Journey Through Verse
Born in Bilbao, Spain, Vélez’s introduction to poetry came through her great-uncle, who would recite stories and poems to her family. These early experiences planted the seeds of a lifelong passion for words. She credits two influential Spanish poets, Ramiro Pinilla and Gloria Fuertes, for shaping her path. Participating in Pinilla’s workshops allowed her to publish her first collection at just 20 years old, and she has continued to write daily in both Spanish and French ever since.
Vélez is the author of four poetry collections in Spanish, with “Errante” being her third bilingual work. Her poetry explores themes that are both intimate and universal, advocating for a form of poetry that transcends borders. She is also part of the collective Voix de l’extrême, which promotes poetry that crosses language and territory boundaries.
The Evolution of Poetry
In recent years, Vélez has observed a resurgence in the popularity of poetry, especially among younger generations. She notes that poetry is no longer confined to the written word but has found new life in music, images, and digital platforms like TikTok and Instagram. “Poetry is young: it is rap, it is on social media,” she says. Vélez draws inspiration from these platforms, often recording herself reading the works of contemporary poets during filming.
She believes that modern poetry is breaking away from traditional conventions, allowing for greater freedom and expression. This evolution, she argues, makes poetry more accessible and relevant to today’s audiences.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence
As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to influence various forms of art, Vélez remains curious rather than fearful. While she acknowledges AI’s potential, she questions whether it can truly capture the emotional depth of human experience. “Artificial intelligence is devoid of emotional consciousness. It knows nothing of love, loss, grief… of the experiences that nourish our existence,” she reflects.
For Vélez, poetry is deeply rooted in the human condition. She sees it as a form of mental exercise, connecting with emotions and the “deepest human substratum.” Though she observes the progress of AI, she remains convinced that poetry will always be tied to the human experience.
Language and Identity
World Poetry Day also emphasizes the importance of preserving endangered languages. Vélez, who is fluent in Spanish and French and has recently expanded her skills to English and Italian, values the role of multilingual poetry in cultural preservation. She highlights the significance of oral traditions in keeping languages alive, particularly for communities facing linguistic extinction.
“In these times of disbelief, horror, and dystopia, literature, and poetry in particular, is more necessary than ever,” she adds. Vélez encourages individuals to share their voices, whether through writing or spoken word, and to contribute to the global conversation.
A Call to Write
As World Poetry Day approaches, Vélez urges people to take up the pen—whether on paper or a smartphone. “No one is judging you,” she says. “And you will see: one day what you write will almost not feel as if you are the one writing it, because you will be connected to something else.”
Her message is clear: there is no better time than now to begin expressing thoughts and feelings through poetry. Whether it’s a personal reflection or a piece of art, sharing words can create connections and inspire change. So, take the plunge and start writing today.
