Geopoetics is an interdisciplinary approach that combines elements of geography, poetry, and philosophy to explore the relationship between places, landscapes, and human experience.[1][2][3] Geopoetics as a term was coined by Scottish Poet Kenneth White in 1979, his original manifesto and definitions of geopoetics have been expanded upon by researchers and poets in the subsequent decades.[4][5][1] Despite this, geopoetics as a concept has been difficult to define clearly.[6]
Geopoetics has been widely employed by critical geography as part of the response to the quantitative revolution in geography, and stresses qualitative approaches.[6][7] It seeks to bridge the gap between the objective study of physical geography and the subjective, emotional response to landscapes and environments.[7][2] It is described as harmonizing art and science.[8][9] In general, poetry can be used as a method for presenting and analyzing data, and geopoetics is in part an outgrowth of this.[10][3] Within the discipline of geography, poetry can be employed to teach abstract geographic concepts, such as the Four traditions of geography, in the classroom.[11] Geopoetics encourages individuals to engage with the world around them more profoundly and meaningfully, often through creative expressions such as poetry, prose, and art. Geopoetics has gained traction in the 21st century as many geographers seek to incorporate artistic expression into their work and as more artists enter the discipline of geography.[3] While geopoetics can present information in unique ways, analyze phenomena, and express meaning, it can also advocate for potential actions, influence policy, stimulate imagination, and seek to shape potential futures.[2][3]