Unlike the author of the original post, I began reading poetry prior to composing it. I have happy memories of leafing through various anthologies, including Palgrave’s Golden Treasury and the Oxford Book of English verse, (the latter has been superceeded by The New Oxford Book of English Verse). I agree with Melisa that its difficult to write poetry unless one has first read the work of other poets. Kevin
K Morris - Poet 
A very interesting read, some helpful advice & resources, many thanks for posting, Kevin, great post!
You are welcome, Debbie. Thanks for your comment – Kevin