1. Ariel by Sylvia Plath

Following Sylvia Plath's untimely death, her legacy extended beyond her remarkable life to include her unpublished literary masterpiece, Ariel. In 1966, her husband, Ted Hughes, brought this collection to the world, and its publication received widespread acclaim. Ariel showcases the extraordinary talent of the beloved poet, presenting a collection of her brilliant, thought-provoking, and emotionally stirring poems. Among them is the titular poem, "Ariel," which resonates deeply with readers and reaffirms their enduring love for Plath's work across generations.

2. The Complete Poems by Anna Akhmatova

"The Complete Poems of Anna Akhmatova" is a remarkable literary collection that brings together the entire body of work by the renowned Russian poet Anna Akhmatova. Originally published in 1990, this edition, translated by Judith Hemschemeyer, has received widespread acclaim and has been recognized as one of the most significant poetry titles in recent years.

Akhmatova's poetry resonates with profound emotion, capturing the essence of human experience, love, loss, and resilience. This comprehensive collection includes over 800 poems, presenting the full range of her poetic genius. From her early verses to her later works, readers can delve into Akhmatova's evocative imagery, lyrical language, and profound insights.

3. Hope is the Thing with Feathers by Emily Dickinson

"Hope is the Thing with Feathers" is a renowned poem written by the American poet Emily Dickinson. Published posthumously in 1891, the poem has captivated readers with its profound exploration of hope and its unique imagery. Through her concise yet powerful language, Dickinson conveys the transformative power of hope. She suggests that hope serves as a constant companion, offering comfort and endurance during challenging times. The poem invites readers to reflect on the significance of hope in their own lives and to find strength in its unwavering presence.

4. Violet Bent Backwards Over the Grass by Lana Del Rey

"Violet Bent Backwards over the Grass" marks the first published book by Lana Del Rey, an American singer-songwriter. This poetry collection encompasses more than 19 original poems, 10 haikus, and captivating photography. It includes a combination of "13 longer poems" and various shorter pieces. Released by Simon & Schuster on September 29, 2020, this debut work showcases Del Rey's talent and showcases her foray into the world of published writing.

5. The Essential Gwendolyn Brooks by Gwendolyn Brooks

Gwendolyn Brooks, the first African American to receive a Pulitzer Prize for Poetry, was known for her insightful observations, striking imagery, and poignant explorations of race, identity, and social justice. "The Essential Gwendolyn Brooks" showcases her poetic genius and her ability to capture the essence of the human experience with profound depth and emotional resonance.

Through her evocative verses, Brooks confronts complex themes, delving into the challenges and triumphs of Black life in America. Her poetry illuminates the struggles, resilience, and beauty of her community, shedding light on the universal human experiences that transcend barriers.

6. The Moon is Always Female: Poems by Marge Piercy

Published in 1980, "The Moon is Always Female" showcases Piercy's unique voice and her ability to blend personal and political narratives. Her poetry reflects a deep understanding of the struggles faced by women and marginalized communities, as well as a fervent belief in the power of collective action and social change. Piercy's words resonate with passion, urgency, and a profound sense of empathy. Her vivid imagery and evocative language invite readers to view the world through a feminist lens, challenging social norms and addressing issues of gender inequality, reproductive rights, and environmental justice.

7. The Book of a Thousand Eyes by Lyn Hejinian

Lyn Hejinian's collection serves as a compilation of "night works" that encompass a wide range of poetic expressions. These include lullabies, bedtime stories, introspective musings, nonsensical utterances, fairy tales, attempts to make sense of the day's events, dream narratives, and occasionally risqué verses. The poems within explore and experiment with the languages associated with various states of consciousness and realms of imagination. While they may not inherently offer redemption, the diverse pieces comprising The Book of a Thousand Eyes advocate for embracing life with a spirited, pained, celebratory, mournful, and resolute commitment.

8. The Complete Collected Poems of Maya Angelou

Maya Angelou's The Complete Collected Poems is a compilation of her poetic works, released by Random House in 1994. This collection holds particular significance as it marks Angelou's first poetry publication following her notable recitation of "On the Pulse of Morning" at President Bill Clinton's inauguration in 1993. The book encompasses her five previously published poetry volumes, spanning from 1971 to 1990. While Angelou's prose writings have garnered more widespread acclaim, her poetry has received relatively limited critical recognition.