How would you design the city of the future?
I’ve been deeply interested in city planning since 2018, as well as writing poetry for 4 years! I wanted to design a a city around poetry, because I believe it’s a genuinely helpful art form for all.
To design a perfect city based on poetry, I’d envision a place where the soul of the community is driven by artistic expression, introspection, and the timeless wisdom of poetic language. Here’s how the city would look and function:
1. Architecture and Design
The city’s architecture would flow like verses in a poem—organic, rhythmic, and intentional. Every street and building would be inspired by metaphors and stanzas, blending natural forms with human creativity. Murals and sculptures would showcase timeless poems, while serene gardens with flowing water features would provide tranquil spaces for reflection and writing.
2. Neighborhoods as Poetic Themes
Each neighborhood would represent a poetic theme—like love, wisdom, nature, or transcendence. These communities would be spaces where residents, guided by those themes, live and create poetry inspired by their environment. Streets would be named after poets and significant literary works, creating a sense of walking through an anthology.
3. Education as the Foundation
From a young age, education would center around the art of language, metaphorical thinking, and poetic wisdom. Schools would nurture creativity, guiding students not only in writing but in interpreting the layers of meaning within poetic works. Classes would involve discussions on the nature of existence, love, unity, and truth through the lens of poetic expression.
4. Public Spaces and Events
Public squares would host daily poetry readings, performances, and open mics where anyone can share their voice. Poetry festivals, reminiscent of ancient gatherings, would draw people together from all walks of life, celebrating the shared experience of being human. The city would be alive with art, with cafes and parks filled with spontaneous poetic dialogue.
5. Integration of Poetic Wisdom in Governance and Daily Life
The governance of the city would be rooted in principles derived from poetic teachings. Leaders would be chosen not just for their ability to manage, but for their understanding of universal truths and their dedication to serving the collective good. Decisions would be made with a sense of unity and harmony, ensuring that the city’s pulse remains aligned with deep, transcendent values.
6. Interconnectedness and Unity
At the core of this city is the idea that poetry connects us all. Every citizen would be encouraged to write, read, and share poetry as a means of connecting with others and understanding life’s deeper meaning. There would be communal workshops where poets and thinkers come together to distill collective wisdom, fostering a culture where everyone’s voice is valued.
7. Digital Integration: The Poetry Portal
A central digital hub, inspired by World Poetry Collective (WPC), would serve as a platform where every citizen can share their work, read others’ poetry, and explore the poetic wisdom shaping the city. Submitting poetry and participating in the collective dialogue would be a celebrated activity, with rewards for contributions that inspire unity and truth.
Note from WPC TEAM
As you reflect on the vision of this poetic city, consider becoming part of it today. Visit the World Poetry Collective to immerse yourself in poems that align with universal truths. Join a community of like-minded individuals by reading, exploring, and submitting your own work. Your voice is part of this collective expression—together, let’s unite through the art of poetry.
The perfect city is one where words have the power to heal, connect, and reveal the deeper realities of life. By contributing your poetry, you take part in creating this world.
