Poetry & Short Stories

Small but mighty — bite-sized inspiration to make you think, smile, and reflect

Whether you want a quiet moment of beauty or a story that stirs your soul, these poetry and short story resources offer easy reading that's meaningful, fun, or even surprising. Perfect for when you want something brief but rich in spirit.

Poets.org

Discover a poem a day, browse famous poets, or enjoy beautiful, thoughtful verse across generations.

Visit Poets.org

Storyberries

Short stories for all ages, from bedtime tales to reflective life lessons. Many stories are illustrated or read aloud.

Explore Storyberries

American Life in Poetry

A weekly poem selected by former U.S. Poet Laureate Ted Kooser. Accessible, powerful, and often moving.

Read Poetry Weekly

Classic Short Stories

Read timeless tales from authors like O. Henry, Mark Twain, and Edgar Allan Poe — all online and free.

Browse Classics

Senior Planet Creative Writing

Join other older adults in writing and sharing short stories or poetry. A friendly, welcoming place for beginners.

Get Involved